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Last updated: October 2, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Pain with Breathing in Pediatrics

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Pneumonia: This is a common cause of pain with breathing in pediatric patients, often accompanied by fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. The pain can be pleuritic, worsening with deep breathing or coughing.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Asthma: Asthma can cause chest pain or discomfort, especially during exacerbations, due to airway constriction and inflammation.
  • Pleurisy: Inflammation of the pleura can cause sharp, stabbing pain that worsens with breathing, often associated with viral infections.
  • Pneumothorax: Although less common in pediatric patients without underlying lung disease, pneumothorax can cause sudden, severe chest pain and shortness of breath.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Pulmonary Embolism: Although rare in children, pulmonary embolism is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention. It can cause sudden onset of chest pain and difficulty breathing.
  • Cardiac Conditions (e.g., Pericarditis, Myocarditis): These conditions can mimic respiratory issues and cause chest pain, often with a component of pain that changes with position or movement.
  • Trauma: Rib fractures or other traumatic injuries can cause pain with breathing and must be considered, especially in the context of a recent accident or fall.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Pneumomediastinum: Air in the mediastinum can cause chest pain and is often associated with asthma, traumatic injuries, or certain infections.
  • Spontaneous Hemopneumothorax: A rare condition where there is both air and blood in the pleural space, which can cause severe chest pain and respiratory distress.
  • Cystic Fibrosis: While not typically presenting with acute pain, cystic fibrosis can lead to chronic respiratory issues, including pain with breathing due to recurrent infections and bronchiectasis.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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