Differential Diagnosis for Left Upper Quadrant Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This condition is a common cause of left upper quadrant pain due to the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus, leading to inflammation and discomfort in the upper abdomen.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Peptic Ulcer Disease: Ulcers in the stomach or duodenum can cause pain in the left upper quadrant, especially if the ulcer is located near the stomach.
- Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining can lead to pain in the left upper quadrant, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
- Pancreatitis: Although pancreatitis typically causes mid-abdominal pain, it can sometimes radiate to the left upper quadrant, especially if the tail of the pancreas is involved.
- Splenomegaly: Enlargement of the spleen, which can be due to various causes such as infection, liver disease, or blood disorders, can cause left upper quadrant pain.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Myocardial Infarction: Although myocardial infarction typically presents with chest pain, it can sometimes cause referred pain in the left upper quadrant, especially if the inferior wall of the heart is involved.
- Pulmonary Embolism: A pulmonary embolism can cause sudden onset of chest pain and shortness of breath, but in some cases, the pain can be referred to the left upper quadrant.
- Aortic Dissection: A tear in the aorta can cause severe, tearing pain that can radiate to the back and abdomen, including the left upper quadrant.
- Splenic Rupture: A rupture of the spleen, which can be due to trauma or a spontaneous rupture, is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
Rare Diagnoses
- Left Upper Quadrant Hernia: A hernia in the left upper quadrant, such as a diaphragmatic hernia, can cause pain and discomfort in the area.
- Gastric Cancer: Although rare, gastric cancer can cause left upper quadrant pain, especially if the tumor is located in the upper stomach.
- Splenic Infarction: An infarction of the spleen, which can be due to a blood clot or other causes, can cause left upper quadrant pain.
- Left Diaphragmatic Pleurisy: Inflammation of the left diaphragmatic pleura can cause pain in the left upper quadrant, often accompanied by shortness of breath and cough.