Differential Diagnosis for 14yo F with RT Generalized Knee Pain
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS): This is a common condition in adolescents, especially after activities that involve jumping and running, such as basketball. The patient's symptoms of knee pain, difficulty bearing weight, and straightening the leg are consistent with PFPS.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Medial collateral ligament (MCL) sprain: The patient's history of playing basketball and the acute onset of pain suggest a possible ligament sprain. MCL sprains are common in sports that involve twisting and bending.
- Meniscal tear: A meniscal tear could cause pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the knee. Although the patient denies pain on palpation, a meniscal tear is still a possible diagnosis.
- Osgood-Schlatter disease: This condition is common in adolescents and is characterized by knee pain, especially after activities that involve running and jumping.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Fracture (e.g., tibial plateau or patellar fracture): Although the patient denies prior injuries, a fracture is a possible diagnosis that could have serious consequences if missed. The patient's difficulty bearing weight and straightening the leg could indicate a more serious injury.
- Septic arthritis: This is a rare but serious condition that requires prompt treatment. The patient's symptoms of acute onset pain and difficulty moving the knee could be indicative of septic arthritis.
- Osteonecrosis: This condition could cause knee pain and stiffness, especially in adolescents. Although it is less common, it is a diagnosis that should not be missed.
- Rare diagnoses
- Rheumatologic conditions (e.g., juvenile idiopathic arthritis): These conditions are less common in adolescents but could cause knee pain and stiffness.
- Tumor (e.g., osteosarcoma): Although rare, a tumor is a possible diagnosis that could cause knee pain and stiffness. The patient's symptoms of acute onset pain and difficulty moving the knee could be indicative of a tumor.
- Infection (e.g., osteomyelitis): This is a rare but serious condition that requires prompt treatment. The patient's symptoms of acute onset pain and difficulty moving the knee could be indicative of an infection.