Differential Diagnosis for 23 F with Abdominal Pain and Nausea
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Gastroenteritis: This is a common condition characterized by inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, often due to viral or bacterial infections. Symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which align with the patient's presentation.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): A chronic condition that affects the large intestine, causing abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. While the exact cause is unknown, stress, hormonal changes, and certain foods can trigger symptoms.
- Appendicitis: Inflammation of the appendix, which can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. It's more common in younger adults and requires prompt medical attention.
- Ovarian Cyst: A fluid-filled sac on the ovary that can cause abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting if it ruptures or twists. It's a common condition in women of reproductive age.
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): An infection that occurs when bacteria enter the urinary system, causing symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, frequent urination, and burning sensation while urinating.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ectopic Pregnancy: A life-threatening condition where the embryo implants outside the uterus, often causing severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vaginal bleeding. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis in women of childbearing age.
- Appendicitis (mentioned earlier): Due to its potential for severe complications if not treated promptly, appendicitis is also included in this category.
- Ovarian Torsion: A condition where the ovary twists around its ligaments, cutting off blood supply and causing severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. It's a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
Rare Diagnoses
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which cause chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue.
- Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas, which can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. It's often associated with gallstones or excessive alcohol consumption.
- Intussusception: A condition where a part of the intestine slides into another, causing bowel obstruction, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. It's rare in adults but can occur due to underlying conditions like tumors or inflammatory bowel disease.