Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: June 28, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for a 45-year-old Male with Intermittent Sharp Pain

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Costochondritis: This condition, also known as Tietze's syndrome, is characterized by inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone (sternum), which could explain the sharp pain underneath the right pectoralis major and shoulder area without exacerbation by movement. The patient's history of diabetes and hyperlipidemia (HLD) may contribute to an increased risk of developing musculoskeletal issues.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Musculoskeletal Strain: Given the location of the pain, a strain in the muscles of the shoulder or chest wall could be a plausible explanation. The absence of a known injury does not rule out this possibility, as minor, unnoticed strains can occur.
  • Gallbladder Disease: The patient's history of HLD increases the risk for gallstones, which can cause intermittent, sharp pain in the right shoulder or chest area due to referred pain.
  • Peptic Ulcer Disease: Although less common, peptic ulcers can cause chest pain that may be referred to the shoulder area. The patient's diabetes and HLD might contribute to an increased risk of gastrointestinal issues.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Myocardial Infarction (MI): Although the patient denies shortness of breath or worsening pain with deep breathing, and there's no mention of exertional exacerbation, cardiac causes of chest pain must always be considered, especially in a patient with risk factors like diabetes and HLD. Atypical presentations of MI can occur.
  • Pulmonary Embolism (PE): The absence of shortness of breath or worsening pain with deep breathing does not entirely rule out PE, as some patients may present atypically. The sharp, intermittent nature of the pain could potentially be related to a pulmonary embolism, especially if there are other underlying risk factors not mentioned.
  • Pneumothorax: A spontaneous pneumothorax could cause sharp chest pain and is a critical condition that requires immediate diagnosis and treatment.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: This condition involves compression of the nerves and/or blood vessels that pass into the thoracic outlet (the space between your collarbone and first rib). It could potentially cause sharp, intermittent pain in the shoulder and chest area but is less common.
  • Pancreatitis: Although the pain profile is typically more epigastric, radiating to the back, pancreatitis could be considered, especially if there are other gastrointestinal symptoms or risk factors for pancreatic disease.

Diagnostic Studies

To evaluate the patient, the following diagnostic studies could be considered:

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG): To rule out myocardial infarction or other cardiac issues.
  • Chest X-ray: To evaluate for pulmonary issues such as pneumothorax or pneumonia.
  • Blood Tests: Including complete blood count (CBC), blood chemistry tests (e.g., troponin for cardiac damage, liver enzymes for gallbladder disease), and inflammatory markers.
  • Ultrasound of the Gallbladder: If gallbladder disease is suspected.
  • CT Scan of the Chest: If pulmonary embolism or other thoracic issues are considered.
  • Musculoskeletal Ultrasound or MRI: If musculoskeletal strain or costochondritis is suspected and needs further evaluation.

Each diagnostic step should be guided by the patient's clinical presentation, risk factors, and the results of initial evaluations.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.