Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: August 19, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for a 93 Year Old Woman with Back Pain

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Osteoporotic Compression Fracture: Given the patient's age, osteoporosis is a common condition that can lead to vertebral compression fractures, which are a frequent cause of back pain in elderly women.
  • Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related wear and tear on the spinal discs can cause back pain, and this condition is highly prevalent in the elderly population.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Musculoskeletal Strain: Back pain due to muscle or ligament strain is common and can occur at any age, including in the elderly, often due to minor trauma or overuse.
  • Spondylosis: This condition, characterized by degenerative changes in the spine, can cause back pain and is more common with advancing age.
  • Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can cause back pain, especially when walking or standing, and is more common in older adults.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Cauda Equina Syndrome: A serious condition that requires immediate medical attention, characterized by nerve damage in the lower spine, which can cause severe back pain, numbness, and weakness in the legs.
  • Spinal Infection (e.g., Osteomyelitis, Discitis): Infections of the spine can cause severe back pain and are more common in older adults or those with compromised immune systems.
  • Malignancy (e.g., Metastatic Cancer): Cancer that has spread to the spine can cause back pain and is a critical diagnosis not to miss, especially in older adults with a history of cancer.
  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Although less common, a ruptured or leaking abdominal aortic aneurysm can present with back pain and is a medical emergency.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Paget's Disease of the Bone: A condition characterized by abnormal bone destruction and regrowth, which can cause back pain, although it is less common.
  • Spinal Epidural Abscess: A rare but serious condition where an abscess forms outside the sac that contains the spinal fluid, which can cause back pain and neurological symptoms.
  • Osteonecrosis of the Spine: A rare condition where the bone tissue in the spine dies due to lack of blood supply, which can cause back pain.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.