Differential Diagnosis for Numbness of Right Middle Finger
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition is the most likely cause of numbness in the middle finger due to compression of the median nerve at the wrist, which supplies sensation to the thumb, index, middle finger, and part of the ring finger.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Ulnar Nerve Entrapment: Although less common for the middle finger, ulnar nerve entrapment can cause numbness, especially if the compression affects the nerve higher up, potentially impacting the median nerve distribution as well.
- Radial Nerve Compression: While the radial nerve primarily affects the back of the hand, in some cases, its compression can lead to sensory disturbances in the fingers, including the middle finger.
- Cervical Radiculopathy: Compression or irritation of the cervical nerve roots (especially C6 or C7) can cause numbness in the fingers, including the middle finger, depending on the specific root involved.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Acute Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Although rare, sudden onset of numbness in one finger could be a symptom of a stroke or TIA, especially if accompanied by other neurological deficits.
- Multiple Sclerosis: An autoimmune disease that can cause a wide range of neurological symptoms, including numbness in specific areas, due to demyelination in the central nervous system.
- Peripheral Neuropathy: Certain systemic conditions (e.g., diabetes, vitamin deficiencies) can cause peripheral neuropathy, leading to numbness in the fingers.
- Rare diagnoses
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Compression of the nerves and/or blood vessels that pass into the thoracic outlet (the space between your collarbone and first rib) can cause numbness in the fingers, including the middle finger.
- Tumors (e.g., schwannomas, ganglions): Rarely, tumors can compress nerves, leading to focal numbness.
- Infections (e.g., Lyme disease, leprosy): Certain infections can cause neuropathy, leading to numbness in specific areas, including the fingers.