Differential Diagnosis for Knuckle Swelling
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Osteoarthritis (OA): This is a common condition that can cause swelling and pain in the knuckles due to wear and tear of the joint cartilage. It's more prevalent in older adults and can be associated with Heberden's nodes (bony growths) on the distal interphalangeal joints.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and swelling in the joints, including the knuckles. It often presents with symmetric joint involvement and morning stiffness.
- Trauma: Direct injury to the knuckle can cause swelling due to bruising, fracture, or sprain. The history of a recent injury would support this diagnosis.
- Gout: A form of arthritis characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in one or more joints, often occurring at the base of the big toe but can also affect the knuckles.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Septic Arthritis: A serious infection within a joint that requires prompt antibiotic treatment. It can present with sudden onset of pain, swelling, and redness, and is a medical emergency.
- Lupus: A chronic autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body, including the joints. Joint pain and swelling can be a presenting symptom, and it's crucial not to miss this diagnosis due to its systemic implications.
Rare Diagnoses
- Psoriatic Arthritis: A type of arthritis that occurs in some people with psoriasis, causing joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. It can lead to knuckle swelling and is associated with skin and nail changes.
- Sarcoidosis: A disease characterized by the growth of granulomas (inflammatory cells) in various parts of the body, including the joints. It can cause joint pain and swelling, although this is less common.
- Hemochromatosis: A genetic disorder characterized by excessive iron accumulation in the body, leading to various symptoms including joint pain and swelling, which can affect the knuckles.