Differential Diagnosis for Chronic Right Hip Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Osteoarthritis: This is the most common cause of chronic hip pain, especially in older adults. The wear and tear of the joint cartilage leads to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Trochanteric Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa over the trochanteric area can cause chronic pain on the outer aspect of the hip.
- Piriformis Syndrome: Compression of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle can lead to chronic pain in the hip and buttock area.
- Hip Labral Tear: A tear in the labrum, the cartilage that surrounds the socket of the hip joint, can cause chronic pain and stiffness.
- Chronic Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons around the hip joint can cause chronic pain, especially with activity.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Avascular Necrosis: A condition where the blood supply to the bone is disrupted, leading to bone death. If missed, it can lead to severe and irreversible damage.
- Infection (Septic Arthritis): Bacterial or fungal infection of the joint can cause chronic pain, swelling, and redness. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent joint destruction.
- Malignancy (Bone Tumor): Although rare, bone tumors such as osteosarcoma or metastatic disease can cause chronic hip pain. Early detection is essential for effective treatment.
- Stress Fracture: A small crack in the bone can cause chronic pain, especially with weight-bearing activities. If missed, it can lead to a complete fracture.
Rare Diagnoses
- Sacroiliitis: Inflammation of the sacroiliac joint can cause chronic pain in the hip and lower back area.
- Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE): A condition where the ball at the upper end of the femur slips out of place, more common in adolescents.
- Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease: A condition where the blood supply to the ball of the hip joint is disrupted, leading to bone death, more common in children.
- Synovial Chondromatosis: A rare condition where cartilage grows in the synovial membrane of the joint, causing chronic pain and stiffness.