Differential Diagnosis for 10-year-old Female with Nausea and Vomiting
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Viral Gastroenteritis: This is the most common cause of acute nausea and vomiting in children, often accompanied by diarrhea. The symptoms presented, such as nausea and vomiting for one day with stable vitals, are consistent with a viral etiology.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Food Poisoning: This could be a likely cause if the child recently consumed contaminated or spoiled food. Symptoms can start within hours of eating the offending food.
- Stress or Anxiety: Psychological factors can trigger nausea and vomiting, especially in children who may be experiencing school-related stress or other emotional challenges.
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): Although less common, a UTI can cause nausea and vomiting, especially if the infection has ascended to the kidneys (pyelonephritis).
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Appendicitis: Although the classic presentation includes abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever, early on, the symptoms can be nonspecific. Missing appendicitis can lead to severe consequences, including perforation and peritonitis.
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): In children with undiagnosed diabetes, DKA can present with nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. This condition requires immediate medical attention to prevent serious complications.
- Intussusception: A condition where a part of the intestine slides into an adjacent part, which can cause intermittent abdominal pain, vomiting, and sometimes currant jelly stool. It's a medical emergency that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Rare Diagnoses
- Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome: A rare condition characterized by recurrent episodes of severe vomiting lasting hours to days, with periods of normal health in between episodes.
- Inborn Errors of Metabolism: Certain metabolic disorders can present with episodes of nausea, vomiting, and other systemic symptoms, often triggered by dietary factors or stress.
- Brain Tumor: Although extremely rare, a brain tumor can cause nausea and vomiting, especially if it increases intracranial pressure. Other neurological symptoms might also be present.