Differential Diagnosis for Ankle Swelling
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Chronic Venous Insufficiency: This condition is a common cause of ankle swelling due to the inability of veins to return blood to the heart properly, leading to fluid accumulation in the ankles.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can cause swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected area, including the ankle.
- Gout: A form of arthritis characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness, often occurring at the base of the big toe but can also affect the ankle.
- Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear of the joint cartilage and underlying bone, leading to pain and swelling in the affected joints, including the ankle.
- Trauma (Sprain or Fracture): Injury to the ankle, such as a sprain or fracture, can cause immediate swelling due to inflammation and fluid accumulation.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot in a deep vein, typically in the legs, which can cause swelling and requires immediate medical attention to prevent pulmonary embolism.
- Compartment Syndrome: A condition where pressure within the muscles builds to dangerous levels, cutting off blood flow and potentially leading to permanent damage or necrosis.
- Infection (e.g., Osteomyelitis or Septic Arthritis): Serious infections of the bone or joint that can cause swelling, pain, and systemic symptoms, requiring prompt antibiotic treatment.
Rare Diagnoses
- Lymphedema: A chronic condition characterized by the abnormal collection of protein-rich fluid in the interstitial tissue, leading to swelling of one or more extremities.
- Erythromelalgia: A rare disorder characterized by burning pain, heat, and redness in the hands and feet, which can also cause swelling.
- Sarcoidosis: An inflammatory disease that can affect multiple parts of the body, including the joints, leading to swelling and other symptoms.
- Amyloidosis: A group of diseases in which abnormal proteins (amyloid) accumulate in organs and tissues, potentially causing swelling among other symptoms.