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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.

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.

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