Differential Diagnosis for Food Poisoning
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Viral Gastroenteritis: This is the most common cause of food poisoning, often caused by norovirus or rotavirus, and typically presents with symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Bacterial Food Poisoning (e.g., Salmonella, E. coli, Campylobacter): These bacteria can contaminate food and cause symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.
- Staphylococcal Food Poisoning: Caused by the ingestion of food contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus, this type of food poisoning typically presents with symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Botulism: A rare but potentially life-threatening condition caused by the ingestion of food contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, which can cause symptoms such as muscle weakness, paralysis, and respiratory failure.
- Listeriosis: A serious infection caused by Listeria monocytogenes, which can contaminate food and cause symptoms such as fever, headache, and stiff neck, particularly in pregnant women, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Mushroom Poisoning: Caused by the ingestion of certain types of mushrooms, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, and can be life-threatening in severe cases.
- Scombroid Poisoning: Caused by the ingestion of contaminated fish, which can cause symptoms such as flushing, headache, and abdominal cramps.
- Ciguatera Fish Poisoning: Caused by the ingestion of contaminated fish, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, as well as neurological symptoms such as numbness and tingling.