Differential Diagnosis for Unilateral Dorsal Swelling of Hand
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Ganglion Cyst: This is the most common cause of a lump on the wrist or hand, often presenting as a unilateral dorsal swelling. It is a benign cystic lesion that arises from the joint or tendon sheath.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Lipoma: A benign tumor composed of fat tissue, which can occur on the dorsal aspect of the hand and cause swelling.
- Tenosynovitis: Inflammation of the tendon sheath, which can cause swelling, pain, and stiffness on the dorsal aspect of the hand.
- Rheumatoid Nodule: A firm, painless nodule that can occur on the dorsal aspect of the hand in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Infection (e.g., Cellulitis or Abscess): Although less common, an infection can cause unilateral dorsal swelling of the hand and requires prompt treatment to prevent serious complications.
- Tumor (e.g., Sarcoma): Although rare, a malignant tumor can present as a swelling on the dorsal aspect of the hand and is crucial to diagnose early for effective treatment.
- Gout or Pseudogout: Crystal-induced arthropathies can cause sudden onset of swelling, pain, and redness on the dorsal aspect of the hand, and are important to diagnose to initiate appropriate treatment.
Rare Diagnoses
- Giant Cell Tumor of the Tendon Sheath: A rare, benign tumor that can occur on the dorsal aspect of the hand and cause swelling.
- Osteochondroma: A rare, benign bone tumor that can occur on the dorsal aspect of the hand and cause swelling.
- Foreign Body Reaction: A rare cause of swelling on the dorsal aspect of the hand, which can occur as a reaction to a foreign body (e.g., a splinter).