A 50-year-old woman presents with sharp upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back, nausea, and vomiting. She has a history of heavy alcohol use. What could be the potential diagnoses and next steps?
This patient's symptoms are suggestive of pancreatitis, possibly alcohol-induced, given her history. The next steps would include blood tests for amylase and lipase, and imaging such as an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan to visualize the pancreas. Management would initially involve supportive care, including pain control, hydration, and avoidance of alcohol.