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Last updated: September 10, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Lower Extremity Edema in 1 Leg

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This is the most common cause of unilateral lower extremity edema, especially in the absence of trauma or surgery. DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in the deep veins of the leg, leading to swelling, pain, and warmth.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Cellulitis: A bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, which can cause edema, redness, and warmth in one leg.
  • Lymphedema: A condition characterized by the abnormal collection of protein-rich fluid in the interstitial tissue, leading to swelling of one leg.
  • Chronic Venous Insufficiency: A condition where the veins have problems returning blood from the legs to the heart, leading to edema, varicose veins, and skin changes.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Compartment Syndrome: A serious condition where increased pressure within a muscle compartment leads to nerve and muscle damage, which can cause edema, pain, and paresthesia in one leg.
  • Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD): A condition where narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the legs, leading to edema, pain, and weakness in one leg.
  • Phlegmasia Cerulea Dolens: A rare but life-threatening condition where a large DVT causes severe swelling and cyanosis of the affected leg.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Lipedema: A rare condition characterized by the abnormal growth of fat cells in the legs, leading to swelling and pain in one leg.
  • Filarial Elephantiasis: A parasitic infection that can cause severe swelling and lymphedema in one leg, typically seen in tropical regions.
  • Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome: A rare congenital condition characterized by abnormal blood and lymphatic vessels, leading to edema, varicose veins, and skin changes in one leg.

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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