Differential diagnosis of acute gastritis

Acute gastritis differential diagnosis mainly includes gastroenteric influenza, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn's disease, and others.

1. Gastroenteric Influenza

Gastroenteric influenza is caused by infection with Coxsackie virus. Like acute gastritis, it can present symptoms involving the digestive tract such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. However, most patients with gastroenteric influenza also exhibit upper respiratory symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, and cough.

2. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder. Its triggering factors are complex and varied, including genetic predisposition, emotional state, lifestyle habits, and more. When blood tests are performed, patients with IBS do not show abnormal elevations in white blood cell count or neutrophil count. In contrast, patients with acute gastritis typically exhibit abnormal increases in these blood cell counts.

3. Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is an autoimmune disorder characterized by chronic abdominal pain and diarrhea. Symptoms caused by acute gastritis are usually episodic. Additionally, serological immunological testing in patients with Crohn’s disease often reveals positive results for antinuclear antibodies.

Differential diagnosis of acute gastritis may also include other conditions such as bacterial dysentery and gastric ulcers.