Differential Diagnosis for Left Upper Quadrant Discomfort
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): This condition is characterized by stomach acid frequently flowing back into the tube connecting the mouth and stomach (esophagus). The symptoms can include discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, which may radiate to the left upper quadrant, especially after eating.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Peptic Ulcer Disease: Ulcers in the stomach or the first part of the small intestine (duodenum) can cause upper abdominal pain, which may be localized to the left upper quadrant, especially if the ulcer is located in the stomach.
- Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining can cause upper abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. The pain can be in the left upper quadrant, depending on the area of the stomach affected.
- Constipation: While not typically thought of as a cause of left upper quadrant pain, severe constipation can lead to discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen due to the proximity of the colon to the left upper quadrant.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Myocardial Infarction: Although more commonly associated with chest pain, a myocardial infarction (heart attack) can sometimes present with pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen, including the left upper quadrant, especially if the inferior wall of the heart is involved.
- Pulmonary Embolism: While typically presenting with respiratory symptoms, a pulmonary embolism can cause referred pain to the upper abdomen if the embolism affects the lower parts of the lungs.
- Splenomegaly or Splenic Infarction: Enlargement of the spleen or an infarction (death of splenic tissue due to lack of blood supply) can cause left upper quadrant pain. These conditions can be due to various causes, including infections, blood diseases, or trauma.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back and may be more pronounced in the left upper quadrant if the tail of the pancreas is involved.
Rare Diagnoses
- Left Diaphragmatic Hernia: A rare condition where part of the stomach or intestine bulges through an opening in the diaphragm, which can cause left upper quadrant discomfort or pain.
- Splenic Artery Aneurysm: A rare condition where there is a bulge in the artery that supplies blood to the spleen, which can cause left upper quadrant pain if it ruptures.
- Gastric Cancer: Although rare, especially in younger populations, gastric cancer can cause upper abdominal pain, including in the left upper quadrant, along with other symptoms like weight loss and difficulty swallowing.