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Last updated: October 16, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Left Upper Abdominal Pain

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Gastritis: This is often the most common cause of left upper abdominal pain due to the stomach's location. Gastritis can be caused by various factors including infection, alcohol consumption, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Peptic Ulcer Disease: Similar to gastritis, peptic ulcers can cause significant pain in the left upper abdomen, especially if the ulcer is located in the stomach.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): While GERD typically causes symptoms in the chest, it can also lead to left upper abdominal pain due to the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus.
  • Pancreatitis: Although pancreatitis can cause more central abdominal pain, it can also radiate to the left upper quadrant, especially if the tail of the pancreas is involved.
  • Splenic Pathology: Conditions affecting the spleen, such as splenomegaly or splenic infarction, can cause left upper abdominal pain due to the spleen's location.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Myocardial Infarction: Although myocardial infarction typically presents with chest pain, it can sometimes cause referred pain in the left upper abdomen, especially if the inferior wall of the heart is involved.
  • Pneumonia: Basilar pneumonia, especially on the left side, can cause abdominal pain due to the proximity of the diaphragm to the lung bases.
  • Aortic Dissection: This is a life-threatening condition that can cause severe, tearing pain that may radiate to the abdomen, including the left upper quadrant.
  • Mesenteric Ischemia: This condition involves insufficient blood flow to the intestines and can cause severe abdominal pain, which may initially be localized to the left upper quadrant.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Left Diaphragmatic Hernia: A rare condition where abdominal contents herniate through the diaphragm, potentially causing left upper abdominal pain.
  • Splenic Artery Aneurysm: A rare condition that can cause left upper abdominal pain, especially if the aneurysm ruptures.
  • Gastric Cancer: Although less common, gastric cancer can cause left upper abdominal pain, especially in older adults or those with risk factors.
  • Intestinal Obstruction: While more commonly causing central abdominal pain, an obstruction in the upper gastrointestinal tract can lead to left upper abdominal pain.

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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