Differential Diagnosis for Abdominal Cramps, Fever, Vomiting, Diarrhea, and Recent Bali Travel
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Traveler's diarrhea (likely caused by bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, or Shigella, or viruses like Norovirus): This is the most probable diagnosis given the recent travel to Bali and the symptoms presented. Traveler's diarrhea is a common condition affecting individuals who travel to developing countries, where they are exposed to different pathogens.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Giardiasis: Caused by the Giardia lamblia parasite, this infection can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting, especially after traveling to areas with contaminated water.
- Food poisoning: Consuming contaminated food can lead to symptoms similar to those described, and Bali, with its diverse and sometimes undercooked or raw food options, poses a risk.
- Viral gastroenteritis: Viruses such as Rotavirus, Adenovirus, or Norovirus can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms and are highly contagious, making travel and exposure to new environments a risk factor.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cholera: Although less common, cholera is a severe diarrheal disease caused by Vibrio cholerae, which can lead to rapid dehydration and death if not treated promptly. Recent travel to an area where cholera might be endemic makes it a critical diagnosis not to miss.
- Typhoid fever: Caused by Salmonella Typhi, this infection can present with fever, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. It is more common in travelers to developing countries and can be severe if not treated.
- Intestinal parasites (e.g., hookworm, roundworm): These can cause a range of gastrointestinal symptoms and are a consideration in travelers to endemic areas.
Rare Diagnoses
- Cyclosporiasis: Caused by the Cyclospora cayetanensis parasite, this infection can lead to prolonged diarrhea and is associated with travel to tropical countries.
- Amoebic dysentery: Caused by Entamoeba histolytica, this condition can cause bloody diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain, and is more common in travelers to areas with poor sanitation.
- Listeriosis: Although rare, Listeria infection can cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, and is associated with consuming contaminated food products.