Differential Diagnosis for Intermittent Sharp Abdominal Pain
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Kidney stones (renal colic): This condition is characterized by severe, sharp pain that comes and goes, often radiating from the flank to the groin. The pain is usually accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sometimes blood in the urine.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Gastrointestinal issues (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease): These conditions can cause intermittent sharp abdominal pain, often accompanied by changes in bowel habits, bloating, and gas.
- Musculoskeletal issues (e.g., abdominal wall strain, hernias): Sharp pain in the abdomen can be caused by muscle strain or hernias, especially if the pain is localized to one area and worsens with movement or coughing.
- Ovarian cysts or torsion (in females): Ovarian cysts can cause intermittent sharp pain, especially if they rupture or twist, cutting off blood supply to the ovary.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Appendicitis: Although the pain of appendicitis often starts as diffuse or around the navel and then localizes to the lower right abdomen, it can present atypically, especially in children and the elderly. Missing this diagnosis can lead to perforation and peritonitis.
- Ectopic pregnancy (in females): This is a life-threatening condition where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, often causing sharp, intermittent pain, especially if the ectopic pregnancy ruptures.
- Aortic dissection: This is a tear in the inner layer of the aorta, which can cause severe, sharp pain in the abdomen or back. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
- Intestinal obstruction: This condition, where a portion of the intestine is blocked, can cause severe, intermittent abdominal pain, vomiting, and constipation. It requires prompt medical attention to prevent complications.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Porphyria: A group of disorders that can cause intermittent sharp abdominal pain, often accompanied by neurological symptoms and psychiatric disturbances.
- Lead poisoning: Can cause abdominal pain, among other symptoms, due to the toxic effects of lead on various body systems.
- Abdominal angina (chronic mesenteric ischemia): This condition, caused by poor blood flow to the intestines, can lead to sharp, intermittent abdominal pain after eating, and weight loss.