Differential Diagnosis for Hematemesis
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Peptic Ulcer Disease: This is the most common cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, which can manifest as hematemesis. The justification for this being the single most likely diagnosis is based on its high prevalence and the fact that peptic ulcers are a common condition that can erode into blood vessels, leading to significant bleeding.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Gastroesophageal Varices: These are dilated sub-mucosal veins in the lower esophagus, often a consequence of liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension. They are prone to bleeding and can cause significant hematemesis.
- Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining can lead to bleeding, especially if caused by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or alcohol.
- Mallory-Weiss Syndrome: This condition involves tears in the mucous membrane or lining of the lower end of the esophagus, where it connects to the stomach. These tears can bleed, leading to hematemesis.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Aortic Enteric Fistula: Although rare, this condition involves a fistula between the aorta and the gastrointestinal tract, which can lead to catastrophic bleeding. It's crucial to consider this in patients with a history of aortic surgery or disease.
- Dieulafoy's Lesion: A rare cause of gastrointestinal bleeding, characterized by a small, superficial ulceration with an exposed, often large, caliber artery at its base. It can cause significant, sometimes life-threatening bleeding.
- Boerhaave's Syndrome: Spontaneous rupture of the esophagus, which can lead to severe bleeding among other symptoms. It's a medical emergency that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Rare Diagnoses
- Hemobilia: Bleeding into the biliary tree, which can lead to hematemesis if the blood enters the gastrointestinal tract. It's often associated with liver or biliary tract pathology.
- Angiodysplasia: Vascular malformations of the gastrointestinal tract that can cause bleeding. They are more common in the elderly and can be a source of chronic blood loss.
- Tumor Bleeding: Bleeding from gastrointestinal tumors, such as gastric or esophageal cancer, can present with hematemesis. Although less common than other causes, it's an important consideration, especially in patients with risk factors for cancer.