Diagnostic Evaluation for Abdominal Pain in a 20-year-old Female College Student

  Diagnostic Evaluation for Abdominal Pain in a 20-year-old Female College Student Chief Complaint The patient's chief complaint is abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, lack of appetite, and diarrhea over the past two weeks. Physical Exams and Diagnostic Tests 1. Physical Exams - Abdominal Examination: To assess for tenderness, rigidity, distension, and rebound tenderness, which can indicate underlying abdominal pathology. - Vital Signs: Including temperature, blood pressure, pulse rate, and respiratory rate to evaluate the patient's overall condition. - Rectal Examination: To check for signs of blood in the stool or abnormalities in the rectal area. 2. Diagnostic Tests - Complete Blood Count (CBC): To check for signs of infection or anemia. - Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP): To assess electrolyte levels and liver function. - Stool Studies: Including stool culture and microscopy to check for infectious causes of diarrhea. - Abdominal Ultrasound: To visualize the abdominal organs and assess for any structural abnormalities. - Colonoscopy: If indicated based on symptoms and initial tests, to evaluate the colon for inflammation or other issues. Utilization of Results for Diagnosis The results of the physical exams and diagnostic tests would be used to: - Identify any signs of infection, inflammation, or malabsorption that could be causing the patient's symptoms. - Rule out differential diagnoses and guide further investigations or treatments. - Determine the underlying cause of the abdominal pain, weight loss, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Differential Diagnosis 1. Gastroenteritis: Inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract often caused by viral or bacterial infections. 2. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis that can present with abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss. 3. Gastritis: Inflammation of the stomach lining that can lead to nausea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort. 4. Peptic Ulcer Disease: Ulcers in the stomach or duodenum that can cause abdominal pain, weight loss, and gastrointestinal symptoms. 5. Gallbladder Disease: Conditions like cholecystitis or gallstones that can manifest with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Supporting Literature According to a study by Smith et al. (2019), gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss can be indicative of various conditions ranging from benign gastroenteritis to more serious inflammatory disorders like IBD. Proper diagnostic evaluation including physical exams and targeted tests is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. In conclusion, a comprehensive approach involving physical exams, laboratory tests, and imaging studies is essential in evaluating a patient with abdominal pain and gastrointestinal symptoms. Considering a range of differential diagnoses allows for a thorough assessment and optimal patient care.

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