Differential Diagnosis for Lump on Proximal Third Tibia Causing Pain and Bruising in Ankle
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Soft tissue tumor (e.g., lipoma, cyst): This is a common cause of lumps on the proximal tibia and can cause pain and bruising if it becomes large enough to compress surrounding tissues or if it becomes inflamed.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Osteochondroma: A type of benign bone tumor that can cause a lump on the proximal tibia and lead to pain and bruising in the ankle due to mechanical irritation.
- Ganglion cyst: A type of cyst that can form on the proximal tibia and cause pain and bruising in the ankle if it becomes large enough to compress surrounding tissues.
- Hematoma: A collection of blood outside of blood vessels that can cause a lump and pain, potentially leading to bruising in the ankle if it tracks down the leg.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Osteosarcoma: A type of malignant bone tumor that can cause a lump on the proximal tibia and lead to pain and bruising in the ankle. Although rare, it is critical to diagnose early due to its aggressive nature.
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot in the deep veins of the leg that can cause pain, swelling, and bruising in the ankle. It is a medical emergency due to the risk of pulmonary embolism.
- Compartment syndrome: A condition where pressure within the muscle compartments of the leg increases, potentially causing pain, bruising, and swelling in the ankle. It is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Ewing's sarcoma: A rare type of malignant bone tumor that can cause a lump on the proximal tibia and lead to pain and bruising in the ankle.
- Lymphoma: A type of cancer that can cause a lump on the proximal tibia if it involves the bone or soft tissues, potentially leading to pain and bruising in the ankle.
- Infection (e.g., osteomyelitis, abscess): Although less common, infections can cause a lump, pain, and bruising in the ankle, especially if they involve the bone or deep soft tissues of the proximal tibia.