Differential Diagnosis for Male with Right Elbow Mass
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Olecranon Bursitis: This is the most likely diagnosis given the soft tissue prominence overlying the olecranon and the absence of trauma history, making contusion/hematoma less likely. The patient's symptoms of a non-tender, non-red, mobile, and soft golf ball-sized mass also align with olecranon bursitis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Lipoma: A common benign tumor that could present as a soft, mobile mass, which fits the patient's symptoms.
- Ganglion Cyst: Although less common in the elbow, a ganglion cyst could present as a soft, mobile mass and should be considered.
- Elbow Hygroma: A benign condition that could cause a soft tissue mass, though it's less common than olecranon bursitis.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Septic Arthritis or Osteomyelitis: Although the patient's mass is described as non-tender and non-red, it's crucial to consider infectious causes, especially if the patient has a fever or other systemic symptoms, as these conditions can be deadly if missed.
- Malignant Tumor (e.g., Sarcoma): While rare, a malignant tumor could present as a mass in the elbow, and it's essential to rule out this possibility, especially if the mass is growing or if the patient has systemic symptoms.
Rare Diagnoses
- Synovial Chondromatosis: A rare condition characterized by the growth of cartilage in the synovium, which could cause a mass.
- Elbow Hemangioma: A benign vascular tumor that could present as a soft mass, though it's rare in the elbow.
- Neurofibroma: A rare benign nerve sheath tumor that could cause a soft, mobile mass in the elbow.