Differential Diagnosis for Chest Pain
- Single most likely diagnosis:
- Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) - This is the most likely diagnosis due to the presentation of chest pain, which is a common symptom of ACS. The justification for this diagnosis is that ACS is a common cause of chest pain and can lead to serious complications if not promptly treated.
- Other Likely diagnoses:
- Pulmonary Embolism (PE) - This diagnosis is likely due to the potential for chest pain to be a symptom of PE, especially if the patient has risk factors such as recent travel or family history.
- Pneumonia - This diagnosis is possible if the patient has symptoms such as cough, fever, or shortness of breath in addition to chest pain.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) - This diagnosis is possible if the patient has a history of GERD or symptoms such as heartburn or regurgitation.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses:
- Aortic Dissection - This diagnosis is critical to consider due to the potential for severe and life-threatening complications if not promptly treated.
- Cardiac Tamponade - This diagnosis is important to consider due to the potential for severe and life-threatening complications if not promptly treated.
- Esophageal Rupture - This diagnosis is critical to consider due to the potential for severe and life-threatening complications if not promptly treated.
- Rare diagnoses:
- Spontaneous Pneumothorax - This diagnosis is rare but possible, especially if the patient has a history of lung disease or recent trauma.
- Pericarditis - This diagnosis is rare but possible, especially if the patient has a history of recent viral illness or autoimmune disease.