Differential Diagnosis for a 14-year-old boy with a fall onto the left elbow from a dirt bike
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Supracondylar fracture of the humerus: This is the most common type of elbow fracture in children, especially in the 7-15 year age group, and is often caused by a fall onto an outstretched hand.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Radial head or neck fracture: These fractures can occur from a fall onto an outstretched hand and are common in children and adolescents.
- Olecranon fracture: A fracture of the olecranon, the bony tip of the elbow, can occur from a direct blow to the elbow or a fall onto the elbow.
- Medial epicondyle fracture: This type of fracture can occur from a fall onto an outstretched hand or a direct blow to the medial aspect of the elbow.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Monteggia fracture: A fracture of the ulna with a dislocation of the proximal radioulnar joint, which can be easily missed if not properly evaluated.
- Neurovascular injury: Injury to the brachial artery or median, radial, or ulnar nerves can occur with elbow fractures and can have serious consequences if not promptly diagnosed and treated.
- Rare diagnoses
- Distal humerus fracture (intercondylar or transcondylar): These fractures are less common in children and adolescents but can occur from high-energy trauma.
- Elbow dislocation: While not a fracture, an elbow dislocation can occur from a fall onto an outstretched hand and can be associated with fractures or neurovascular injuries.