Differential Diagnosis for Periodic Swelling and Heat of Fingers and Feet/Ankles
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): This is a common autoimmune disorder that often presents with symmetric, periodic swelling and heat in the fingers and feet/ankles, along with morning stiffness. The periodic nature of the symptoms and the involvement of small joints are characteristic.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): This condition combines the swollen, scaly skin of psoriasis with joint pain and arthritis. Symptoms can include periodic swelling and heat in the affected joints, including fingers and feet/ankles.
- Gout: Although gout typically affects a single joint at a time (often the big toe), it can cause periodic episodes of intense pain, swelling, and heat. It's less likely to affect fingers and feet/ankles symmetrically but should be considered, especially if there's a history of similar episodes.
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): SLE is an autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body, including the joints. It may cause periodic joint pain, swelling, and heat, although it's often accompanied by other systemic symptoms.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Septic Arthritis: Although less likely, this is a medical emergency. Bacterial infection of a joint can cause sudden onset of pain, swelling, and heat, and it requires immediate antibiotic treatment to prevent joint destruction.
- Osteomyelitis: Bone infection can also present with localized pain, swelling, and heat, and it's crucial to diagnose and treat promptly to avoid serious complications.
Rare Diagnoses
- Relapsing Polychondritis: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause recurring episodes of cartilage inflammation, leading to pain, swelling, and heat in various parts of the body, including ears, nose, and joints.
- Sarcoidosis: A condition characterized by the growth of granulomas (inflammatory cells) in various parts of the body, including joints. It can cause periodic joint pain, swelling, and heat, among other symptoms.
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A group of disorders that affect connective tissues supporting the skin, bones, blood vessels, and many other organs and tissues. Some types can lead to joint hypermobility and periodic joint pain and swelling.