Differential Diagnosis for Chest Pain in a Kid Playing Sports
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Exercise-induced asthma or bronchospasm: This condition is a common cause of chest pain and cough in children, especially after physical activity. The symptoms presented, such as chest pain and cough immediately after playing sports, align with this diagnosis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Costochondritis: Inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone can cause chest pain, especially in the middle of the chest, which worsens with movement or deep breathing.
- Musculoskeletal strain: Overexertion or strain during sports can lead to muscle or rib injuries, causing chest pain.
- Viral or bacterial infections: Respiratory infections can cause chest pain and cough, and the onset after physical activity might be coincidental.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Pulmonary embolism: Although rare in children, a pulmonary embolism can cause sudden chest pain and cough. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis, especially if there's a history of recent travel, immobilization, or family history of clotting disorders.
- Myocarditis or pericarditis: Inflammation of the heart muscle or the sac surrounding the heart can cause chest pain, and while less common, these conditions can be serious and require prompt medical attention.
- Pneumothorax: A collapsed lung can cause sudden chest pain and cough, especially if it occurs during physical activity.
Rare Diagnoses
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: A condition where the heart muscle becomes thickened, which can cause chest pain during exercise due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.
- Aortic dissection: A tear in the inner layer of the aorta, which is extremely rare in children but can cause severe, sudden chest pain.
- Pneumomediastinum: Air leaking into the space between the lungs can cause chest pain and is more common in tall, thin males, often after intense straining or coughing.