Differential Diagnosis for Bilateral Hip Pain

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Osteoarthritis: This is the most common cause of bilateral hip pain, especially in older adults. It is characterized by wear and tear of the joint cartilage, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and pain in multiple joints, including the hips.
• Osteonecrosis: A condition where the bone tissue dies due to lack of blood supply, often caused by trauma, steroids, or excessive alcohol consumption.
• Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the joints, often caused by repetitive motion or direct trauma.
• Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons, which connect muscles to bones, often caused by overuse or repetitive strain.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Septic Arthritis: A bacterial infection of the joint, which can cause severe pain, swelling, and damage to the joint if left untreated.
• Avascular Necrosis: A condition where the bone tissue dies due to lack of blood supply, often caused by trauma, steroids, or excessive alcohol consumption.
• Metastatic Bone Disease: Cancer that has spread to the bones, which can cause pain, weakness, and limited mobility.

Rare Diagnoses

• Paget's Disease: A condition that affects bone growth and remodeling, leading to enlarged and misshapen bones.
• Fibromyalgia: A chronic condition characterized by widespread muscle pain, fatigue, and tender points.
• Sickle Cell Disease: A genetic disorder that affects the production of hemoglobin, leading to anemia, pain, and increased risk of infections.
• Gaucher's Disease: A genetic disorder that affects the breakdown of fatty substances, leading to anemia, pain, and increased risk of infections.