Differential Diagnosis for Unilateral Arm Edema and Bruising
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This is the most likely diagnosis due to the presentation of unilateral arm edema and bruising, which are common symptoms of DVT. The blood clot in the deep veins can cause swelling, pain, and discoloration.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Lymphedema: This condition is characterized by the abnormal collection of protein-rich fluid in the interstitial tissue, leading to swelling of the affected limb. It can be primary (inherited) or secondary (acquired) due to surgery, infection, or trauma.
- Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can cause swelling, redness, and bruising of the affected area. It typically presents with warmth, tenderness, and sometimes fever.
- Trauma: Direct injury to the arm can cause edema and bruising due to blood leakage into the soft tissues.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Pulmonary Embolism (PE) with DVT: Although DVT is the most likely diagnosis, it's crucial to consider the possibility of a pulmonary embolism, especially if the patient has symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath. PE is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention.
- Superior Vena Cava Syndrome: Obstruction of the superior vena cava can cause edema and bruising of the arm, face, and upper body. This condition can be life-threatening and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Rare diagnoses
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: A condition characterized by compression of the nerves and/or blood vessels that pass through the thoracic outlet, leading to swelling, pain, and bruising of the affected arm.
- Venous Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: A rare condition where the subclavian vein is compressed, leading to edema, pain, and discoloration of the arm.
- Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome: A rare congenital condition characterized by abnormal development of blood vessels, leading to edema, bruising, and varicose veins in the affected limb.