What are common differential diagnoses to consider for chest pain?

The selection of myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism, and pneumothorax as common differential diagnoses for chest pain is fitting due to the critical nature of these conditions and their prevalent presentation of symptoms.

Myocardial infarction is a leading cause of chest pain and is characterized by the obstruction of blood flow to a part of the heart muscle, resulting in ischemia. Patients typically present with chest discomfort, which may radiate to the arm, shoulder, or jaw, often accompanied by shortness of breath or diaphoresis.

Pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs, leading to reduced blood flow and oxygenation. The patient may experience sudden chest pain that can be sharp or pleuritic, along with difficulty breathing and sometimes hemoptysis, making it a critical consideration when assessing chest pain.

Pneumothorax involves the accumulation of air in the pleural space, which can cause sudden, sharp chest pain and difficulty breathing. This condition can arise spontaneously or as a result of trauma. The pain is typically localized and may worsen with deep breathing or coughing.

While the other options contain conditions that might cause pain in the thoracic region, they do not share the same immediate life-threatening aspects associated with the