Differential Diagnosis for Left Knee Pain at Tibial Tubercle
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Osgood-Schlatter Disease: This condition is characterized by inflammation of the patellar tendon at its insertion on the tibial tubercle, often seen in adolescents but can persist into adulthood. The increased running duration and intensity can exacerbate the condition, leading to pain at the tibial tubercle.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Patellar Tendinopathy: Also known as jumper's knee, this condition involves inflammation of the patellar tendon, which can be caused by overuse or repetitive strain from activities like running. The pain is typically localized to the inferior pole of the patella or the tibial tubercle.
- Tibial Tubercle Apophysitis: Although more common in adolescents, this condition can occur in adults, especially with significant increases in physical activity. It involves inflammation of the growth plate at the tibial tubercle.
- Quadriceps Tendinopathy: Inflammation or degeneration of the quadriceps tendon can cause knee pain, including pain at the tibial tubercle due to referred pain or associated patellar tracking issues.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Stress Fracture: A stress fracture of the tibia or patella can cause localized pain and should not be missed due to the potential for serious complications if left untreated. The increased running intensity is a risk factor for stress fractures.
- Infection (Osteomyelitis or Septic Arthritis): Although less common, infection in the knee joint or bone can cause severe pain and must be promptly diagnosed and treated to prevent serious complications.
- Tumor: Bone tumors, such as osteosarcoma, can cause pain at the tibial tubercle. While rare, missing a diagnosis of a tumor could have severe consequences.
Rare Diagnoses
- Sinding-Larsen-Johansson Syndrome: This is a rare condition involving inflammation of the patellar tendon at its origin, typically seen in younger athletes. It could potentially cause referred pain to the tibial tubercle.
- Hoffa's Fat Pad Syndrome: Inflammation of the infrapatellar fat pad can cause knee pain, including pain in the region of the tibial tubercle, although this is less common.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae around the knee, such as the deep infrapatellar bursa, can cause localized pain and swelling, potentially involving the area around the tibial tubercle.