Differential Diagnosis for a 72 Year Old Male with Chest Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS): Given the patient's age and symptom of chest pain, ACS (which includes myocardial infarction and unstable angina) is the most likely diagnosis due to the high prevalence of coronary artery disease in this age group.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Chest pain can be a symptom of GERD, especially if it is accompanied by regurgitation or relieved by antacids.
- Pulmonary Embolism (PE): Although less common than ACS, PE is a significant consideration, especially if the patient has risk factors such as recent immobilization, cancer, or history of deep vein thrombosis.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Exacerbation: If the patient has a history of COPD, an exacerbation could cause chest pain, typically accompanied by shortness of breath and cough.
- Pneumonia: Chest pain can be a symptom of pneumonia, especially if it is pleuritic (sharp pain that worsens with breathing).
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Aortic Dissection: A life-threatening condition that requires immediate diagnosis and treatment. Risk factors include hypertension, aortic aneurysm, and certain genetic conditions.
- Pulmonary Embolism (also listed under Other Likely Diagnoses): Due to its high mortality rate if untreated, it's crucial not to miss this diagnosis.
- Esophageal Rupture: A rare but potentially fatal condition that can cause severe chest pain, often after vomiting or retching.
Rare Diagnoses
- Pericarditis: Inflammation of the pericardium, which can cause sharp chest pain that improves with leaning forward.
- Myocarditis: Inflammation of the heart muscle, which can cause chest pain, shortness of breath, and palpitations.
- Spontaneous Pneumothorax: A collapsed lung, which can cause sudden, severe chest pain and shortness of breath, more common in tall, thin males or those with lung disease.
- Costochondritis (Tietze's Syndrome): Inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone, causing chest pain and tenderness.