Differential Diagnosis for a Lump in the Forearm after Lifting Weights
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Tendon rupture or strain with hematoma formation: This is the most likely diagnosis, as lifting weights can cause sudden strain on the tendons in the forearm, leading to rupture or strain, and subsequent hematoma formation, which can present as a lump.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Ganglion cyst: A ganglion cyst is a common condition that can cause a lump in the forearm, especially after repetitive strain or injury, such as lifting weights.
- Tendinosis or tendonitis: Chronic or acute inflammation of the tendons in the forearm can cause a lump or swelling, especially if there is associated scar tissue or calcification.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae in the forearm can cause a lump or swelling, especially if there is associated fluid accumulation or scar tissue.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Compartment syndrome: Although less likely, compartment syndrome is a serious condition that can cause a lump or swelling in the forearm, and can lead to serious complications, such as nerve damage or necrosis, if not promptly diagnosed and treated.
- Infection or abscess: An infection or abscess in the forearm can cause a lump or swelling, and can be life-threatening if not promptly diagnosed and treated.
Rare Diagnoses
- Lipoma or other soft tissue tumor: A lipoma or other soft tissue tumor can cause a lump in the forearm, although this is a less common cause of a lump in this location.
- Foreign body reaction: A foreign body reaction, such as to a splinter or other foreign object, can cause a lump or swelling in the forearm, although this is a rare cause of a lump in this location.
- Sarcoidosis or other systemic disease: Certain systemic diseases, such as sarcoidosis, can cause a lump or swelling in the forearm, although this is a rare cause of a lump in this location.