Differential Diagnosis for 24-year-old Woman with Abdominal Pain
- The differential diagnosis for a 24-year-old woman with abdominal pain is broad and can be categorized as follows:
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Ovarian Cyst: This is a common cause of abdominal pain in young women, often presenting with sudden onset of sharp pain due to cyst rupture or torsion.
- Gastroenteritis: This is a common condition that can cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, often due to viral or bacterial infection.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Women are more prone to UTIs, which can cause abdominal pain, dysuria, and frequent urination.
- Constipation: This is a common condition that can cause abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
- Menstrual Cramps (Dysmenorrhea): This is a common cause of abdominal pain in women, often related to menstrual cycles.
- Appendicitis: Although less common in this age group, appendicitis can cause abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ectopic Pregnancy: This is a life-threatening condition that can cause abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, and missed periods.
- Ovarian Torsion: This is a surgical emergency that can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
- Ruptured Ovarian Cyst: This can cause severe abdominal pain, hemorrhage, and shock.
- Intestinal Obstruction: This can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and constancy.
Rare Diagnoses
- Endometriosis: This is a chronic condition that can cause abdominal pain, dysmenorrhea, and infertility.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): This includes conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.
- Adrenal Gland Disorders: Such as pheochromocytoma or adrenal insufficiency, which can cause abdominal pain, hypertension, and other systemic symptoms.
- Hernias: Such as inguinal or umbilical hernias, which can cause abdominal pain, bulge, and discomfort.