Differential Diagnosis for Unilateral Nasal Bone Pain

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Sinusitis: This is the most common cause of unilateral nasal bone pain, often accompanied by other symptoms such as nasal congestion, discharge, and headache. The pain is typically localized to the area over the affected sinus.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Nasal fracture: A recent trauma to the nose can cause unilateral nasal bone pain, swelling, and deformity.
  • Rhinitis: Inflammation of the nasal mucosa can cause pain, itching, and congestion, which may be unilateral.
  • Dental problems: Referred pain from dental issues such as abscesses or impactions can cause unilateral nasal bone pain.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Malignant tumor: Although rare, a tumor in the nasal cavity or sinuses can cause unilateral nasal bone pain, and early detection is crucial for treatment.
  • Osteomyelitis: Infection of the bone can cause severe pain, swelling, and redness, and if left untreated, can lead to serious complications.
  • Cavernous sinus thrombosis: A blood clot in the cavernous sinus can cause severe headache, facial pain, and other neurological symptoms, and requires prompt medical attention.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Trigeminal neuralgia: A condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, causing sudden, severe facial pain, which can be unilateral.
  • Nasal glioma: A rare congenital tumor that can cause nasal obstruction and pain.
  • Relapsing polychondritis: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation and destruction of cartilage, including the nasal cartilage, leading to pain and deformity.