Differential Diagnosis for Lower Abdominal Pain Referred to the Groin and Vernal Tenderness
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Inguinal hernia: This condition is characterized by a protrusion of abdominal contents through a weakness in the inguinal canal, which can cause lower abdominal pain that radiates to the groin. The pain can worsen with coughing, straining, or heavy lifting, and tenderness may be present in the groin area.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Ovarian cyst or torsion: These conditions can cause lower abdominal pain that may radiate to the groin, especially if the cyst is large or has ruptured. Vernal tenderness may be present due to the proximity of the ovaries to the inguinal canal.
- Epididymitis or orchitis: Inflammation of the epididymis or testes can cause pain in the groin and lower abdomen, which may be accompanied by tenderness and swelling in the affected area.
- Urinary tract infection or kidney stone: While these conditions typically cause pain in the flank or lower back, they can also radiate to the groin and lower abdomen, especially if the infection or stone is located in the lower urinary tract.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Testicular torsion: This is a medical emergency that requires prompt attention, as it can lead to loss of the testicle if not treated promptly. It typically causes severe, sudden pain in the testicle and groin, which may radiate to the lower abdomen.
- Appendicitis: While appendicitis typically causes pain in the right lower quadrant, it can sometimes cause pain in the lower abdomen that radiates to the groin, especially if the appendix is located in a retrocecal position.
- Ectopic pregnancy: This is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. It can cause lower abdominal pain that radiates to the groin, as well as vaginal bleeding and other symptoms.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Lymphoma or other malignancies: These conditions can cause lower abdominal pain and groin tenderness due to lymph node involvement or tumor growth.
- Psoas abscess: This is a rare condition that can cause lower abdominal pain and groin tenderness due to an abscess in the psoas muscle.
- Nerve entrapment or compression: Conditions such as meralgia paresthetica or femoral nerve compression can cause pain and numbness in the groin and lower abdomen due to nerve compression or entrapment.