[18F] With acute dermatitis and abdominal pain

Patient Description

An 18-year-old female presents with a sudden onset of itchy, red, and burning dermatitis around the mouth, spreading evenly, and sharp abdominal pain rated 8/10 in severity. The dermatitis and abdominal pain started approximately 1 hour and 1 night ago, respectively. She also reports a runny nose and sore throat. The patient has difficulty breathing but no swelling of the lips, face, or tongue, and no known allergies or pre-existing conditions. She has not been exposed to any new substances, with the exception of consuming lime juice. No current medications or chronic illnesses were reported.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, possible diagnoses include:

  • Allergic Reaction: Your symptoms of dermatitis, difficulty breathing, and abdominal pain may be indicative of an allergic reaction. This could be due to something you ate, such as the lime juice, or something you came into contact with.

    • Treatment typically involves avoiding the allergen and taking antihistamines. Severe reactions may require an epinephrine injection.
  • Gastroenteritis: This is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It can cause abdominal pain and a sore throat.

    • Treatment usually involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms.
  • Contact Dermatitis: This is a skin reaction resulting from exposure to allergens or irritants. It can cause a red, itchy rash.

    • Treatment involves avoiding the irritant and applying topical creams to manage the rash.

What you can do

  • Seek immediate medical attention: Your symptoms, especially difficulty breathing, require urgent medical attention. Please go to the emergency department immediately or call 911.

  • Avoid potential allergens: If possible, try to identify and avoid the substance that may have caused your symptoms. This could be the lime juice or something else you recently came into contact with.

  • Over-the-counter medication: Over-the-counter antihistamines can help manage allergic reactions. However, they should only be taken after consulting with a healthcare professional.

What you should look out for

  • Worsening symptoms: If your symptoms worsen, seek immediate medical attention. This includes increased difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or lips, or worsening of your rash.

  • New symptoms: If you develop new symptoms, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or a high fever, seek medical attention.

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I am not a doctor. Please consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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9 mo ago


People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of an allergic reaction?

Common symptoms of an allergic reaction include itchy skin, rash, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or lips, abdominal pain, and sometimes gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea or diarrhea.


How can I differentiate between an allergic reaction and gastroenteritis?

An allergic reaction often includes skin symptoms like rash and itching, and respiratory symptoms like difficulty breathing. Gastroenteritis typically involves gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting, and may be accompanied by a sore throat.


What should I do if I experience difficulty breathing due to an allergic reaction?

If you experience difficulty breathing due to an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention. This may involve calling emergency services or going to the nearest emergency department. An epinephrine injection may be necessary for severe reactions.


Can lime juice cause an allergic reaction?

While lime juice is not a common allergen, it can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, especially if they have a sensitivity to citrus fruits. It's important to monitor for symptoms and avoid the substance if a reaction occurs.

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