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 facial pressure. The pain is usually 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 discomfort in one nostril, especially if the condition is allergic or infectious in nature.
- Dental issues: Referred pain from dental problems such as an abscess or impacted tooth can sometimes be felt in the nasal area, particularly if the tooth is in the upper jaw.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Malignancy (e.g., squamous cell carcinoma): Although rare, cancer in the nasal cavity or sinuses can cause persistent, unilateral pain and should not be overlooked.
- Osteomyelitis: Infection of the bone can lead to severe pain, swelling, and redness, and if left untreated, can have serious consequences.
- Cavernous sinus thrombosis: A rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can cause pain, especially if it involves the structures surrounding the nasal cavity.
- Rare diagnoses
- Wegener's granulomatosis: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation and damage to the blood vessels, including those in the nasal passages, leading to pain and other symptoms.
- Relapsing polychondritis: An autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation and destruction of cartilage, including the cartilage in the nose, leading to pain and deformity.
- Trigeminal neuralgia: A chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which can cause intense, shock-like pain in the face, including the nasal area, though this is less common.