Differential Diagnosis for Buffalo Hump in a 21-year-old
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Cushing's syndrome: This condition, characterized by excess cortisol production, is a common cause of buffalo hump, which is a fatty deposit on the back of the neck. The young age of the patient and the presence of a buffalo hump make Cushing's syndrome a strong consideration.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Obesity: A buffalo hump can also be seen in individuals with significant obesity, as excess fat can accumulate in this area.
- Lipodystrophy: This condition involves the abnormal distribution of body fat and can lead to the formation of a buffalo hump.
- Steroid use: Long-term use of corticosteroids can lead to Cushingoid features, including a buffalo hump.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Pheochromocytoma: Although less common, pheochromocytoma (a tumor of the adrenal gland) can cause Cushing's syndrome, which may present with a buffalo hump. Missing this diagnosis could be life-threatening due to the potential for severe hypertension and cardiovascular complications.
- Adrenal carcinoma: A rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can produce excess cortisol, leading to Cushing's syndrome and potentially a buffalo hump.
- Rare diagnoses
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) syndromes: These are rare genetic disorders that can lead to the development of multiple endocrine tumors, including those that produce excess cortisol.
- Familial Cushing's syndrome: A rare genetic condition that can cause Cushing's syndrome and its associated symptoms, including a buffalo hump.
- Madelung disease: A rare condition characterized by the accumulation of fat in abnormal locations, including the back of the neck, which could be mistaken for a buffalo hump.