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Last updated: October 27, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for 2-Month-Old Vomiting

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER): This is the most common cause of vomiting in infants, especially at 2 months of age. It occurs due to the immaturity of the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Infectious Gastroenteritis: Commonly caused by viral infections, this condition leads to inflammation of the stomach and intestines, resulting in vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes fever.
  • Overfeeding or Underfeeding: Incorrect feeding techniques or volumes can lead to vomiting in infants.
  • Lactose Intolerance or Milk Protein Allergy: Although less common, these conditions can cause vomiting, especially after feeding.
  • Pyloric Stenosis: A condition where the pylorus (the passage between the stomach and small intestine) thickens, blocking food from entering the intestine, leading to projectile vomiting.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Intussusception: A serious condition where a part of the intestine slides into an adjacent part, potentially cutting off blood supply. It's a medical emergency and can present with vomiting, abdominal pain, and bloody stools.
  • Volvolus or Intestinal Obstruction: Twisting of the intestine or blockage can lead to severe vomiting, abdominal distension, and potentially life-threatening complications if not promptly treated.
  • Congenital Heart Disease: Severe cases can lead to feeding difficulties and vomiting due to heart failure.
  • Inborn Errors of Metabolism: Certain metabolic disorders can present with vomiting, among other symptoms, and require early diagnosis for proper management.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Congenital Anomalies of the Gastrointestinal Tract: Conditions like esophageal atresia, tracheoesophageal fistula, or duodenal atresia are rare but critical diagnoses.
  • Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome: Infants exposed to opioids in utero can experience withdrawal symptoms, including vomiting, after birth.
  • Adrenal Insufficiency: A rare condition where the adrenal glands do not produce enough hormones, potentially leading to vomiting among other 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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