Differential Diagnosis for Bilateral Hand Pain
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Osteoarthritis: This is a common condition that affects the joints, leading to pain and stiffness, especially in older adults. Bilateral hand pain could be due to osteoarthritis affecting the joints in both hands.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and pain in the joints, often affecting the hands bilaterally.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A condition that occurs when the median nerve is compressed, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling in the hands, which can be bilateral.
- Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the hands can cause bilateral pain, especially with repetitive activities.
- Ganglion Cysts: Non-cancerous lumps that can develop on the joints or tendons of the hands, causing pain and discomfort.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Septic Arthritis: A bacterial infection in the joint that can cause severe pain, swelling, and potentially lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): A chronic pain condition that can occur after an injury, causing severe pain, swelling, and changes in skin temperature and color.
- Vasculitis: Inflammation of the blood vessels that can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the hands, and can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.
- Rare diagnoses
- Scleroderma: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause thickening and hardening of the skin, leading to pain and limited mobility in the hands.
- Erythromelalgia: A rare disorder that causes burning pain, heat, and redness in the hands and feet.
- Raynaud's Phenomenon: A condition that affects blood flow to the fingers and toes, causing pain, numbness, and discoloration in response to cold temperatures or stress.