Differential Diagnosis for Right Wrist Injury with Pain and Swelling
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Wrist Sprain: This is the most common injury to the wrist, often resulting from a fall onto an outstretched hand, which can cause stretching or tearing of the ligaments surrounding the wrist joint. The presentation of pain and swelling is consistent with this diagnosis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Scaphoid Fracture: A common fracture in the wrist, especially after a fall onto an outstretched hand. It can present with pain and swelling, particularly in the anatomical snuffbox.
- Colles' Fracture: A fracture of the distal radius, which is common in older adults and individuals with osteoporosis. It typically occurs after a fall onto an outstretched hand and can present with pain, swelling, and deformity of the wrist.
- Wrist Contusion: A bruise of the wrist, which can occur from a direct blow to the area. It presents with pain, swelling, and sometimes bruising.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Compartment Syndrome: A serious condition that occurs when pressure within the muscles builds to dangerous levels, decreasing blood flow and potentially leading to nerve and muscle damage. It is a medical emergency and can present with severe pain, swelling, and pallor of the affected limb.
- Open Fracture: A fracture where the bone pierces the skin, leading to an increased risk of infection. It requires immediate medical attention and can present with pain, swelling, and an open wound.
- Vascular Injury: Damage to the blood vessels of the wrist, which can lead to decreased blood flow to the hand. It is a medical emergency and can present with pain, swelling, pallor, and decreased pulses in the affected limb.
Rare Diagnoses
- Ganglion Cyst Rupture: A lump under the skin that occurs when fluid leaks out of a joint or tendon, which can rupture and cause pain and swelling.
- Kienböck's Disease: A rare condition where the blood supply to one of the bones in the wrist (the lunate) is interrupted, leading to its death (necrosis). It presents with chronic wrist pain and can be a cause of unexplained wrist pain in younger adults.
- Infectious Arthritis: An infection within the joint space, which can present with acute onset of pain, swelling, and decreased range of motion of the wrist. It is more common in individuals with certain medical conditions or those who are immunocompromised.