Differential Diagnosis for Fluid Collection around Elbow
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Olecranon bursitis: This is the most likely diagnosis due to the common occurrence of fluid accumulation in the olecranon bursa, which is located at the elbow. It can be caused by trauma, infection, or inflammation.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Elbow fracture or sprain: Trauma to the elbow can cause fluid accumulation due to bleeding or inflammation.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: This chronic autoimmune disorder can cause inflammation and fluid accumulation in the joints, including the elbow.
- Gout or pseudogout: These conditions can cause sudden, severe joint pain and swelling, including fluid accumulation around the elbow.
- Septic arthritis: A bacterial or fungal infection of the joint can cause fluid accumulation, pain, and swelling.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Septic bursitis: An infection of the bursa can be serious and requires prompt treatment with antibiotics.
- Osteomyelitis: An infection of the bone can cause fluid accumulation and requires prompt treatment with antibiotics.
- Cellulitis or abscess: A bacterial infection of the skin and soft tissues can cause fluid accumulation and requires prompt treatment with antibiotics.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Hemophilia: A genetic disorder that affects blood clotting, which can cause fluid accumulation and bleeding into the joints.
- Pigmented villonodular synovitis (PVNS): A rare condition that causes inflammation and fluid accumulation in the joints.
- Synovial chondromatosis: A rare condition that causes cartilage growth in the joint, leading to fluid accumulation and joint pain.