Differential Diagnosis
- Single most likely diagnosis
- D) Generalized anxiety disorder: The patient's symptoms of excessive worry about his parents, trouble falling asleep, and intermittent stomach aches are consistent with generalized anxiety disorder. These symptoms have been present for a year and are affecting his daily life, including school.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- E) Normal development: It's possible that the patient's symptoms are a normal part of development, and he may be experiencing typical childhood worries and anxieties. However, the duration and impact of his symptoms suggest a more significant issue.
- B) Autism spectrum disorder: Although the patient's developmental milestones are normal, some children with autism spectrum disorder may have anxiety symptoms similar to those described. However, there is no mention of social interaction or communication difficulties, which are typical of autism spectrum disorder.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- None of the options provided are immediately life-threatening, but it's essential to consider other potential causes of anxiety in children, such as trauma, abuse, or medical conditions (e.g., hyperthyroidism). These conditions would require a more comprehensive evaluation and are not listed among the options.
- Rare diagnoses
- A) Antisocial personality disorder: This diagnosis is unlikely in a 10-year-old child, as antisocial personality disorder typically requires a pattern of behavior that persists into adulthood.
- C) Conduct disorder: While conduct disorder can present with behavioral problems, it typically involves more severe symptoms, such as aggression, destruction of property, or violation of rules, which are not mentioned in the scenario.