Differential Diagnosis for Post-Prandial Vomiting in a 10-Month-Old Baby
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This condition is common in infants and is characterized by the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus, leading to vomiting after feeding. The age of the baby and the post-prandial nature of the vomiting make GERD a highly plausible diagnosis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Pyloric Stenosis: A condition where the pylorus (the passage between the stomach and small intestine) thickens, causing obstruction and leading to projectile vomiting after feeding. Although more common in younger infants, it can still present at 10 months.
- Food Allergy or Intolerance: Allergies to proteins in formula or breast milk, or intolerance to lactose or other components, can cause vomiting after feeding.
- Infectious Gastroenteritis: Viral or bacterial infections can cause inflammation of the stomach and intestines, leading to vomiting, especially after feeding.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Intussusception: A condition where a part of the intestine slides into another, causing bowel obstruction. Although less common, it is a medical emergency that can present with vomiting and requires immediate attention.
- Volvolus or Midgut Malrotation: Conditions involving twisting of the intestines, which can cause obstruction and ischemia, presenting with severe vomiting.
- Hirschsprung's Disease: A congenital condition affecting the large intestine, leading to severe constipation or intestinal obstruction, which can cause vomiting.
Rare Diagnoses
- Congenital Anomalies of the Gastrointestinal Tract: Conditions such as esophageal atresia, tracheoesophageal fistula, or duodenal atresia, which are usually diagnosed earlier in life but can occasionally present later.
- Metabolic Disorders: Certain metabolic conditions, like urea cycle disorders or organic acidemias, can cause vomiting after feeding due to the body's inability to properly metabolize nutrients.
- Neurological Conditions: Conditions affecting the brain or nervous system, such as increased intracranial pressure or cerebral palsy, can lead to vomiting, although these are less directly related to feeding.