A 22-year-old male experiences severe abdominal pain after heavy drinking. What condition is he likely suffering from?

The scenario describes a 22-year-old male who experiences severe abdominal pain after heavy drinking, which is a key indicator of acute pancreatitis. This condition occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed, and it is often associated with excessive alcohol consumption. The pain from acute pancreatitis typically presents as severe, persistent, and often located in the upper abdomen, sometimes radiating to the back.

In this context, the link between heavy alcohol intake and sudden onset abdominal pain strongly points to acute pancreatitis, as the pancreas can be significantly affected by alcohol, leading to inflammation and associated symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent further complications, such as pancreatic necrosis or systemic involvement.

The other conditions listed may also cause abdominal pain, but they are less directly associated with heavy drinking. For instance, acute appendicitis typically presents with pain in the right lower quadrant and may include fever and nausea. Alcoholic hepatitis primarily causes liver-related symptoms rather than acute abdominal pain. Cholecystitis, which involves inflammation of the gallbladder, usually presents with right upper quadrant pain and is often associated with meal intake but does not have the same direct correlation with acute alcohol consumption. Thus, the most fitting diagnosis for the described symptoms is acute pancreatitis.