Differential Diagnosis for GERD and RUQ Swelling

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) with associated gallbladder disease: This is the most likely diagnosis because GERD can cause referred pain to the right upper quadrant (RUQ) and is often associated with gallbladder disease, which can cause RUQ swelling.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder can cause RUQ swelling and pain, and may be associated with GERD symptoms.
• Peptic Ulcer Disease: Peptic ulcers can cause epigastric pain that radiates to the RUQ and may be associated with GERD.
• Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver can cause RUQ swelling and pain, and may be associated with GERD symptoms.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Although rare, liver cancer can cause RUQ swelling and pain, and may be associated with GERD symptoms. Missing this diagnosis could be deadly.
• Cholangiocarcinoma: Cancer of the bile duct can cause RUQ swelling and pain, and may be associated with GERD symptoms. Early detection is crucial for treatment.
• Pulmonary Embolism: Although less common, a pulmonary embolism can cause referred pain to the RUQ and may be associated with GERD symptoms. Missing this diagnosis could be fatal.

Rare Diagnoses

• Sphincter of Oddi Dysfunction: A rare condition that affects the sphincter of Oddi, causing abdominal pain and RUQ swelling.
• Budd-Chiari Syndrome: A rare condition caused by thrombosis of the hepatic veins, leading to liver enlargement and RUQ swelling.
• Congenital anomalies of the biliary tree: Rare conditions such as choledochal cysts or biliary atresia can cause RUQ swelling and pain, and may be associated with GERD symptoms.