Pain radiating to the upper quadrant of the abdomen can be caused by which conditions?

Pain radiating to the upper quadrant of the abdomen is commonly associated with conditions affecting the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas, as these structures are located in that area and refer pain accordingly.

Cholecystitis often presents as pain in the right upper quadrant due to inflammation of the gallbladder, which can radiate to the shoulder or back. Similarly, cholelithiasis, or gallstones, can cause similar pain, particularly if a stone obstructs the bile duct.

Pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas, can cause significant pain that may also be felt in the upper abdomen and can radiate to the back. Gastritis, while primarily presenting with epigastric discomfort, can also contribute to upper abdominal pain, especially when it's severe or if there's an underlying ulcer.

Thus, the inclusion of cholecystitis, cholelithiasis, pancreatitis, and gastritis in the selected answer aligns well with the anatomical understanding of referred pain from these organs, as they are all capable of causing pain that presents in the upper quadrants of the abdomen.