Differential Diagnosis for Left Elbow Pain after a Fall
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Radial Head Fracture: This is a common injury following a fall onto an outstretched hand, which can cause pain and tenderness around the elbow, particularly on the lateral side.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Olecranon Fracture: A fracture of the olecranon (the bony prominence at the elbow) can occur from a direct blow to the elbow or a fall onto an outstretched hand, leading to pain and swelling at the back of the elbow.
- Elbow Dislocation: A dislocation of the elbow joint can result from a fall, causing significant pain, swelling, and deformity of the elbow.
- Medial Epicondyle Fracture: A fracture of the medial epicondyle (on the inner aspect of the elbow) can occur from a fall or direct blow, leading to pain and swelling on the medial side of the elbow.
- Elbow Sprain: Ligament sprains around the elbow can occur from a fall, causing pain, swelling, and instability of the elbow joint.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Compartment Syndrome: Although less common, compartment syndrome is a serious condition that can arise from increased pressure within the muscle compartments of the arm, potentially leading to nerve and muscle damage if not promptly treated.
- Ulnar Nerve Injury: Injury to the ulnar nerve can occur from a fracture, dislocation, or direct trauma to the elbow, leading to numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and forearm.
- Brachial Artery Injury: Damage to the brachial artery from a fracture or dislocation can lead to decreased blood flow to the arm, potentially resulting in ischemia and requiring urgent intervention.
Rare Diagnoses
- Monteggia Fracture: A fracture of the ulna with dislocation of the proximal radioulnar joint, which is less common but can occur from a fall onto an outstretched hand.
- Galeazzi Fracture: A fracture of the radius with dislocation of the distal radioulnar joint, which is rare but can result from a fall or direct blow to the forearm.
- Elbow Osteochondritis Dissecans: A condition where a piece of cartilage and bone in the elbow joint becomes damaged, potentially due to trauma, and can cause pain and locking of the elbow.