Differential Diagnosis for Left Abdominal Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Diverticulitis: This condition is a common cause of left lower quadrant abdominal pain, especially in older adults. It occurs when diverticula in the colon become inflamed, leading to pain, tenderness, and potentially serious complications if not treated.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Constipation: Constipation can cause significant abdominal pain and discomfort, often localized to the left lower quadrant due to the location of the descending colon.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS can cause recurring abdominal pain, often accompanied by changes in bowel movements. The pain can be localized to the left side.
- Kidney Stone: A kidney stone passing down the ureter can cause severe, colicky pain that may be felt in the left flank or lower abdomen.
- Ovarian Cyst or Torsion: In females, an ovarian cyst can cause left lower quadrant pain if it ruptures or becomes twisted, cutting off its blood supply.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ectopic Pregnancy: Although less common, an ectopic pregnancy can present with left lower quadrant pain and is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.
- Appendicitis (if atypical presentation): While appendicitis typically presents with right lower quadrant pain, an atypically located appendix can cause pain on the left side, and missing this diagnosis can lead to severe consequences.
- Intestinal Obstruction: An obstruction in the intestines can cause severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and constipation. It is a serious condition that requires prompt medical intervention.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn's Disease or Ulcerative Colitis): These conditions can cause chronic inflammation and damage to the digestive tract, leading to abdominal pain, among other symptoms.
Rare Diagnoses
- Splenic Infarction or Rupture: The spleen is located in the left upper quadrant, and conditions affecting it, such as infarction or rupture, can cause severe left-sided abdominal pain.
- Pancreatitis: Although pancreatitis typically causes mid-abdominal pain radiating to the back, it can sometimes present with left upper quadrant pain.
- Gastrointestinal Lymphoma: A rare type of cancer that can cause abdominal pain, among other symptoms, depending on the location and extent of the disease.
- Left-sided Inguinal Hernia: A hernia occurring on the left side can cause pain and discomfort in the left lower quadrant, especially if it becomes incarcerated or strangulated.