A 40-year-old woman presents with episodic abdominal pain, flushing, diarrhea, and wheezing. Symptoms occur in association with certain foods. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
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A 40-year-old woman presents with episodic abdominal pain, flushing, diarrhea, and wheezing. Symptoms occur in association with certain foods. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
Correct Answer: D - The episodic abdominal pain, flushing, diarrhea, and wheezing triggered by specific foods are characteristic of carcinoid syndrome, often caused by neuroendocrine tumors.
A. Diverticulitis
Diverticulitis: Diverticulitis typically presents with localized abdominal pain, fever, and leukocytosis, not the described symptoms.
B. Celiac disease
Celiac disease: Celiac disease can cause abdominal symptoms, but it is not associated with flushing, wheezing, and carcinoid syndrome-like symptoms.
C. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): IBS may cause episodic abdominal pain but does not typically present with flushing, wheezing, and diarrhea triggered by specific foods.
E. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): IBD can cause abdominal pain and diarrhea, but it is not associated with flushing, wheezing, and carcinoid syndrome-like symptoms.