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Differential Diagnosis for Left Thigh Swelling in a 57-Year-Old Female

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This is a common cause of unilateral leg swelling, especially in the absence of injury. The patient's age and the acute onset of symptoms without trauma make DVT a leading consideration.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Cellulitis: An infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissues that can cause swelling, redness, and warmth of the affected area. It's a common condition that could present with thigh swelling.
  • Lymphedema: Although less common, lymphedema could cause unilateral swelling, especially if there's a history of surgery, radiation, or infection affecting lymph nodes.
  • Muscle Strain or Contusion: Even without a reported injury, minor trauma or overuse could lead to muscle strain or contusion, causing swelling.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Malignancy (e.g., Soft Tissue Sarcoma): Although rare, any unexplained swelling, especially if persistent or worsening, warrants consideration of malignancy to avoid delayed diagnosis.
  • Compartment Syndrome: A medical emergency that could present with swelling, pain, and decreased mobility. It's crucial to identify and treat promptly to avoid long-term damage.
  • Popliteal Artery Aneurysm or Arteriovenous Malformation: These vascular abnormalities can cause swelling and require urgent attention to prevent serious complications.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Lipedema: A chronic condition characterized by the abnormal growth of fat cells in the legs, leading to swelling. It's less common and often misdiagnosed as lymphedema.
  • Filarial Infection: In endemic areas, filarial infections can cause lymphatic obstruction leading to swelling. This would be an unusual diagnosis in most Western countries without travel history.
  • Pseudolymphoma or Other Rare Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions like pseudolymphoma or other rare inflammatory diseases could present with swelling but are much less common and typically have additional symptoms.

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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