Final answer:
For a 3-year-old with bright red blood per rectum and lower abdominal tenderness, the likely diagnosis would be Meckel's diverticulum or intussusception, with intussusception being more common in this age group.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to diagnosing a 3 yo child with symptoms of BRBPR (bright red blood per rectum) and lower abdominal tenderness. Considering the options provided:
- Meckel's diverticulum - A congenital abnormality leading to gastric tissue remnants in the ileum, which can cause pain and bleeding.
- Intussusception - A condition in which a part of the intestine invaginates into another section, often causing obstruction, pain, and in some cases, bloody stools.
- Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) - A vascular disease marked by a purpuric rash, joint pain, abdominal pain, and gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Pyloric stenosis - A condition commonly seen in younger infants, causing forceful vomiting, but not typically associated with bloody stools or lower abdominal tenderness.
The most consistent diagnosis with the given symptoms of lower abdominal pain and bloody stools in a 3-year-old would likely be either Meckel's diverticulum or intussusception, with intussusception being the more common cause of these specific symptoms in this age group. However, a definitive diagnosis would require further clinical evaluation.