Differential Diagnosis for Left Lower Quadrant Abdominal Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Diverticulitis: This is a common cause of left lower quadrant abdominal pain, especially in older adults. Diverticulitis occurs when diverticula in the colon become inflamed, leading to pain, tenderness, and potentially serious complications if not treated.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Constipation: Constipation can cause significant abdominal pain and discomfort, often localized to the left lower quadrant due to the location of the descending colon.
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): IBS can cause chronic or recurrent abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, with pain often reported in the left lower quadrant.
- Left Ovarian Cyst or Torsion: In females, ovarian cysts or torsion can cause severe left lower quadrant pain and should be considered, especially if the pain is sudden in onset.
- Kidney Stone: A kidney stone passing down the left ureter can cause severe, colicky pain in the left lower quadrant, radiating to the groin.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ectopic Pregnancy: Although less common, an ectopic pregnancy can present with left lower quadrant pain and is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.
- Appendicitis (if appendix is located in the left lower quadrant): While appendicitis typically presents with right lower quadrant pain, in some cases the appendix may be located in the left lower quadrant, making this a diagnosis that cannot be missed.
- Intestinal Obstruction: An obstruction in the intestines can cause severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and constipation, and requires prompt medical attention to prevent serious complications.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn's Disease or Ulcerative Colitis): These conditions can cause chronic inflammation and damage to the gastrointestinal tract, leading to abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other symptoms.
Rare Diagnoses
- Splenic Infarction or Rupture: Although rare, splenic infarction or rupture can cause left upper quadrant pain that may radiate to the left lower quadrant.
- Left Colon Cancer: While not typically presenting with acute pain, left colon cancer can cause chronic abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, and weight loss.
- Endometriosis: Endometriosis can cause chronic pelvic pain, including left lower quadrant pain, especially during menstruation.
- Intra-Abdominal Shunt or Hernia: Rarely, an intra-abdominal shunt or hernia can cause left lower quadrant pain due to obstruction or strangulation of bowel.