Differential Diagnosis for Numbness in Hand
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This is the most common cause of numbness in the hand, particularly in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. It occurs due to compression of the median nerve at the wrist.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Ulnar Nerve Entrapment: Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow or wrist can cause numbness in the little and ring fingers.
- Radial Nerve Compression: Compression of the radial nerve can cause numbness on the back of the hand or the thumb side of the hand.
- Peripheral Neuropathy: Conditions such as diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, or alcohol abuse can cause peripheral neuropathy, leading to numbness in the hands.
- Cervical Radiculopathy: Nerve root compression in the neck can cause numbness in the hand, depending on which nerve root is affected.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Although less common, numbness in the hand can be a symptom of a stroke or TIA, particularly if accompanied by other symptoms such as weakness, vision changes, or speech difficulties.
- Multiple Sclerosis: This autoimmune disease can cause numbness in the hands, among other symptoms, and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Spinal Cord Compression: Compression of the spinal cord can cause numbness, weakness, or paralysis in the hands and arms, and is a medical emergency.
- Rare diagnoses
- Guillain-Barré Syndrome: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause numbness, weakness, and paralysis in the hands and arms.
- Sjögren's Syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can cause peripheral neuropathy, leading to numbness in the hands.
- Tumors (e.g., schwannoma, neurofibroma): Rarely, tumors can compress nerves, causing numbness in the hand.
- Vasculitis: Inflammation of the blood vessels can cause numbness in the hands, although this is a rare condition.