Differential Diagnosis for Firm Mass in Left Lower Quadrant with Sharp Pain
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Diverticulitis: This condition is characterized by inflammation of the diverticula in the colon, which can cause a firm mass and sharp pain in the left lower quadrant. The pain is often severe and may be accompanied by changes in bowel habits, fever, and nausea.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Sigmoid colon cancer: A tumor in the sigmoid colon can cause a firm mass and sharp pain in the left lower quadrant. Other symptoms may include changes in bowel habits, weight loss, and blood in the stool.
- Ovarian cyst or tumor: A cyst or tumor on the ovary can cause a firm mass and sharp pain in the left lower quadrant. Other symptoms may include pelvic pain, irregular menstrual periods, and infertility.
- Intestinal obstruction: A blockage in the intestine can cause a firm mass and sharp pain in the left lower quadrant. Other symptoms may include severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and constipation.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm: A ruptured aneurysm can cause severe abdominal pain and a firm mass in the left lower quadrant. This is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
- Ectopic pregnancy: A pregnancy that develops outside the uterus can cause a firm mass and sharp pain in the left lower quadrant. This is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
- Appendicitis (if the appendix is located in the left lower quadrant): Although the appendix is typically located in the right lower quadrant, it can be located in the left lower quadrant in some cases. Appendicitis can cause severe abdominal pain and a firm mass.
- Rare diagnoses
- Lymphoma: A type of cancer that affects the immune system, lymphoma can cause a firm mass and sharp pain in the left lower quadrant. Other symptoms may include fever, weight loss, and fatigue.
- Neurofibroma: A type of tumor that affects the nerves, neurofibroma can cause a firm mass and sharp pain in the left lower quadrant. Other symptoms may include numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness.