Differential Diagnosis for Vomiting

• Single most likely diagnosis:
  • Gastroenteritis: This is often the most common cause of vomiting, especially in children and young adults, due to its high prevalence and the ease with which gastrointestinal viruses are transmitted.
• Other Likely diagnoses:
  • Food poisoning: Similar to gastroenteritis, food poisoning is a common cause of vomiting, resulting from the consumption of contaminated or spoiled food.
  • Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu): This condition is highly contagious and can cause severe vomiting, among other symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal cramps.
  • Motion sickness: For individuals prone to it, motion sickness can induce vomiting during travel by car, boat, plane, or other vehicles.
  • Pregnancy-related morning sickness: Although it's called "morning sickness," the nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy can occur at any time of day.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.):
  • Appendicitis: While less common, appendicitis can present with vomiting, especially if the appendix ruptures, leading to peritonitis, a life-threatening condition.
  • Intestinal obstruction: This is a serious condition where the intestine is blocked, which can lead to severe vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain.
  • Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe abdominal pain and vomiting, and if not treated promptly, can lead to serious complications.
  • Meningitis: Although less directly associated with vomiting, in severe cases, especially in children, meningitis can present with vomiting along with fever, headache, and stiff neck.
• Rare diagnoses:
  • Brain tumors: Certain brain tumors, especially those in the posterior fossa or cerebellum, can cause vomiting due to increased intracranial pressure.
  • Increased intracranial pressure (ICP): Conditions that increase pressure inside the skull, such as a subdural hematoma or cerebral edema, can lead to vomiting.
  • Porphyrias: A group of rare genetic disorders that can cause a variety of symptoms, including severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and neurological symptoms.
  • Cyclic vomiting syndrome: A rare condition characterized by recurring episodes of severe vomiting, often without an identifiable cause.