Differential Diagnosis for Left Hand Dorsiflexion Weakness and Tingling on Left Side of Body

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Left Radial Neuropathy: This condition often presents with weakness in wrist and finger extension (dorsiflexion) due to the involvement of the radial nerve, which controls these movements. Tingling on the left side of the body, particularly in the distribution of the radial nerve (back of the hand, thumb, and fingers), supports this diagnosis.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Left C6 or C7 Radiculopathy: Compression or damage to the C6 or C7 nerve roots can cause weakness in the muscles of the forearm and hand, leading to dorsiflexion weakness. Tingling or numbness on the left side, particularly in the arm and hand, can also occur.
• Left Brachial Plexopathy: Involvement of the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that originates in the spinal cord and controls muscle movements and sensation in the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand, can lead to a variety of symptoms including weakness and tingling on the affected side.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): Although less likely given the specific pattern of weakness and tingling, a stroke or TIA affecting the motor and sensory areas of the brain corresponding to the left side of the body could present with similar symptoms. Missing this diagnosis could be catastrophic.
• Multiple Sclerosis: An episode of neurological symptoms such as weakness and tingling on one side of the body could be a manifestation of multiple sclerosis, especially if there are other symptoms like vision changes, balance issues, or previous episodes of neurological dysfunction.

Rare Diagnoses

• Neurosyphilis: A rare condition caused by the progression of syphilis to the nervous system, which can lead to a wide range of neurological symptoms including weakness, numbness, and tingling.
• Lyme Disease: In its later stages, Lyme disease can cause neurological problems, including weakness, numbness, and tingling, although this would typically be accompanied by other symptoms such as arthritis, heart problems, or additional neurological manifestations.
• Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Severe deficiency can lead to neurological symptoms including weakness, numbness, and tingling in the extremities, though this would typically be bilateral and accompanied by other systemic symptoms.