Differential Diagnosis for Vomiting
The patient's symptom of vomiting can be caused by various conditions. Here's a differential diagnosis organized into categories:
Single most likely diagnosis:
- Gastroenteritis: This is a common condition characterized by inflammation of the stomach and intestines, often caused by viral or bacterial infections, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. It's likely due to the high prevalence and the nonspecific symptom of vomiting.
Other Likely diagnoses:
- Food poisoning: Similar to gastroenteritis, food poisoning from consuming contaminated or spoiled food can lead to vomiting, among other symptoms.
- Viral gastroenteritis (e.g., norovirus): Highly contagious and common, especially in closed environments like cruise ships or hospitals.
- Motion sickness: If the patient has been traveling, motion sickness could be a cause of vomiting.
- Pregnancy-related morning sickness: If the patient is a female in her childbearing years, morning sickness could be a consideration.
Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.):
- Appendicitis: Although less common, appendicitis can present with vomiting and abdominal pain. Missing this diagnosis could lead to severe complications, including perforation and peritonitis.
- Intestinal obstruction: This is a blockage that prevents normal flow of the products of digestion (including food, fluid, and gas) in the intestines. It can cause severe vomiting and is a medical emergency.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause severe abdominal pain and vomiting. It requires prompt medical attention.
- Meningitis: In some cases, especially in children, vomiting can be a symptom of meningitis, an infection of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
Rare diagnoses:
- Brain tumors: Although rare, brain tumors can cause vomiting, especially if they increase intracranial pressure.
- Gastroparesis: A condition where the stomach takes too long to empty its contents, which can cause vomiting, especially after eating.
- Cyclic vomiting syndrome: A disorder that causes recurrent episodes of severe vomiting, often without an identifiable cause.
- Porphyrias: A group of disorders that can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, and neurological symptoms due to defects in heme biosynthesis.