Differential Diagnosis for Abdominal Wall Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Abdominal wall strain or muscle pull: This is a common condition, especially in young and healthy individuals, often caused by overexertion, heavy lifting, or sudden twisting movements. The absence of fever, vomiting, and gastrointestinal symptoms supports this diagnosis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Hernia: Although less common, hernias can cause abdominal wall pain without systemic symptoms. The pain is usually localized to the area of the hernia.
- Costochondritis: Inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone can cause abdominal wall pain, especially if the lower ribs are involved.
- Nerve entrapment or neuropathy: Compression or irritation of nerves in the abdominal wall can cause pain, often without other symptoms.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ovarian torsion or ovarian cyst: Although less common, ovarian torsion or ruptured ovarian cysts can cause severe abdominal pain and should be considered, especially in female patients, even in the absence of gastrointestinal symptoms.
- Appendicitis: Early appendicitis might present with abdominal wall pain before the typical migration of pain to the right lower quadrant. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis to avoid missing a potentially life-threatening condition.
- Ectopic pregnancy: In female patients of childbearing age, ectopic pregnancy is a critical diagnosis to consider, as it can present with abdominal pain and minimal other symptoms initially.
Rare Diagnoses
- Abdominal wall endometriosis: A rare condition where endometrial tissue grows in the abdominal wall, causing cyclic pain.
- Desmoid tumor: A rare, benign tumor that can grow in the abdominal wall and cause pain.
- Abdominal wall hematoma: A rare condition, often caused by trauma or anticoagulation, which can cause abdominal wall pain.