Question

A 32 year-old male with history of tobacco abuse presents with an intermittent burning sensation in his chest for six months, worsening over the past 2 weeks. His wife has noticed episodes of coughing at night. He denies dysphagia, weight loss, hematemesis, or melena. His vital signs are all normal and physical examination is unremarkable. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis? A. Peptic ulcer disease B. Acute gastritis C. Gastroesophageal reflux disease D. Esophageal stricture

Answer 1

Given the patient's history of tobacco abuse and intermittent burning sensation in his chest, along with the episodes of coughing at night, the most likely diagnosis would be gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).


GERD is commonly seen in patients with a history of tobacco use, and can present with chest discomfort, burning sensation in the chest, and coughing. It's also possible that the patient's history of tobacco abuse has led to chronic gastritis, which could present with similar symptoms, but since the patient is complaining of chest pain and not abdominal pain, GERD is the more likely diagnosis.