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Last updated: October 20, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Bilateral Flank Pain

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Nephrolithiasis (Kidney Stones): This condition is a common cause of bilateral flank pain, especially if the stones are moving or obstructing the ureters. The pain is often severe and can radiate to the groin.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Pyelonephritis: An infection of the kidneys that can cause bilateral flank pain, fever, and other urinary symptoms. It's more common in women and individuals with urinary tract abnormalities.
  • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): While often causing lower urinary tract symptoms, severe or upper UTIs can lead to bilateral flank pain.
  • Musculoskeletal Strain: Overuse or strain of the back muscles can cause bilateral flank pain, especially in individuals with a history of heavy lifting or bending.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Although it typically presents with abdominal pain, a large or leaking aneurysm can cause bilateral flank pain. This is a medical emergency.
  • Sickle Cell Crisis: Individuals with sickle cell disease can experience severe pain episodes, including bilateral flank pain, due to vaso-occlusive crises affecting the kidneys.
  • Pulmonary Embolism: In rare cases, a large pulmonary embolism can cause referred pain to the flanks, especially if there's associated pleuritic chest pain.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): A genetic disorder leading to the growth of numerous cysts filled with fluid in the kidneys, which can cause bilateral flank pain due to cyst rupture or hemorrhage.
  • Renal Cell Carcinoma: Although typically asymptomatic in early stages, advanced renal cell carcinoma can cause bilateral flank pain, especially if there's metastasis or invasion into surrounding structures.
  • Amyloidosis: A condition characterized by the deposition of amyloid proteins in various organs, including the kidneys, which can lead to bilateral flank pain among other systemic symptoms.

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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