Differential Diagnosis for Injury
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Blunt trauma: This is often the most common cause of injury, resulting from accidents, falls, or assaults, and can affect various parts of the body.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Penetrating trauma: Injuries caused by objects entering the body, such as gunshot wounds or stabbings, are also common and can be life-threatening.
- Burns: Thermal, chemical, or electrical burns can cause significant injury and are a frequent reason for emergency medical visits.
- Sports injuries: With the increasing participation in sports, injuries from athletic activities are common and can range from minor to severe.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Spinal cord injury: Although not as common as other injuries, spinal cord injuries can result in permanent paralysis or death if not promptly and properly treated.
- Head injury with intracranial hemorrhage: A head injury can sometimes lead to bleeding inside the skull, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention.
- Internal injuries from non-accidental trauma: Injuries that are intentionally inflicted, such as those from child or domestic abuse, must be identified to ensure the victim's safety and to comply with legal requirements.
- Rare diagnoses
- Animal bites or stings: While not as frequent, certain animal bites or stings can transmit diseases or cause anaphylactic reactions, making them important to consider in the differential diagnosis.
- Electrocution: Electrical injuries can occur from contact with live electrical sources and can cause cardiac arrest or burns.
- Drowning or near-drowning: Although less common than other injuries, drowning incidents can happen and require immediate medical attention to prevent long-term brain damage or death.