Differential Diagnosis for 25 yo male with recent left pinky infection now with left elbow erythema and pain
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Cellulitis: This is the most likely diagnosis given the recent infection of the left pinky and the current symptoms of erythema and pain in the left elbow. The infection could have spread from the pinky to the elbow through the lymphatic system or bloodstream.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Lymphangitis: This is an infection of the lymphatic vessels and could be a possible diagnosis given the recent infection and the symptoms of erythema and pain in the elbow.
- Abscess or infected cyst: An abscess or infected cyst in the elbow could cause erythema and pain, especially if the infection from the pinky has spread to the elbow.
- Septic arthritis: Although less likely, septic arthritis of the elbow joint could be a possible diagnosis, especially if the patient has a history of joint problems or if the infection has spread to the joint.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Osteomyelitis: This is an infection of the bone and could be a possible diagnosis if the infection has spread to the bone in the elbow. Osteomyelitis can be serious and requires prompt treatment.
- Endocarditis: If the patient has a history of heart problems, endocarditis (an infection of the heart valves) could be a possible diagnosis, especially if the infection has spread through the bloodstream.
- Necrotizing fasciitis: This is a rare but serious infection of the fascia (the tissue surrounding muscles) and could be a possible diagnosis if the patient has severe pain, swelling, and erythema in the elbow.
- Rare diagnoses
- Erysipelas: This is a type of skin infection that could cause erythema and pain in the elbow, but it is less common than cellulitis.
- Sporotrichosis: This is a rare fungal infection that could cause erythema and pain in the elbow, especially if the patient has a history of exposure to soil or plants.
- Mycobacterial infection: This is a rare type of bacterial infection that could cause erythema and pain in the elbow, especially if the patient has a history of exposure to contaminated water or soil.