Differential Diagnosis for Acute Firmness to Chin

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Trauma or contusion: This is the most likely diagnosis due to the acute onset of firmness, which could be caused by a direct blow to the chin, leading to swelling and bruising.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Abscess or infected cyst: An acute infection in the chin area could cause firmness, swelling, and potentially other symptoms like redness, warmth, and pus.
  • Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that could cause firmness, swelling, and redness in the affected area.
  • Lipoma or other benign tumors: Although less likely to cause acute symptoms, a growing lipoma or other benign tumor could cause firmness in the chin area.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Necrotizing fasciitis: A severe bacterial infection that can cause rapid progression of symptoms, including firmness, swelling, and potentially life-threatening complications if not promptly treated.
  • Angioedema: A severe allergic reaction that can cause rapid swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat, potentially leading to airway obstruction.
  • Parotid gland infection or abscess: An infection in the parotid gland could cause firmness and swelling in the chin and jaw area, potentially leading to serious complications if not treated.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Actinomycosis: A rare bacterial infection that can cause firm, swollen masses in the face and neck.
  • Sarcoidosis: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause firm, swollen masses in various parts of the body, including the face and chin.
  • Metastatic cancer: In rare cases, a metastatic tumor could cause firmness and swelling in the chin area, although this would typically be accompanied by other symptoms and a known history of cancer.