Differential Diagnosis for Cervical Motion Tenderness
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): This is the most likely diagnosis due to the presence of cervical motion tenderness, which is a classic sign of PID. PID is an infection of the female reproductive organs that can cause inflammation and scarring.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Ectopic Pregnancy: Cervical motion tenderness can also be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy, where the embryo implants outside the uterus. This condition requires prompt medical attention.
- Ovarian Cyst or Torsion: Ovarian cysts or torsion can cause severe pelvic pain and cervical motion tenderness.
- Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, leading to inflammation and scarring.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy: A ruptured ectopic pregnancy is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
- Ovarian Torsion: Ovarian torsion is a condition where the ovary twists around its ligaments, cutting off blood supply. It is a medical emergency.
- Appendicitis: Although appendicitis typically presents with right lower quadrant pain, it can sometimes cause cervical motion tenderness.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Tubo-ovarian Abscess: A tubo-ovarian abscess is a rare but serious complication of PID, where an abscess forms on the fallopian tube or ovary.
- Uterine Rupture: Uterine rupture is a rare but life-threatening condition that can cause cervical motion tenderness.
- Malignancy: Certain types of cancer, such as ovarian or cervical cancer, can cause cervical motion tenderness, although this is rare.