Differential Diagnosis for Swollen Hands and Feet

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Idiopathic Edema: This condition is characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the tissues, leading to swelling. It is a common cause of swollen hands and feet, especially in women, and can be related to hormonal changes, salt intake, or standing for long periods.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Heart Failure: Swelling in the hands and feet can be a sign of heart failure, where the heart is not pumping efficiently, leading to fluid buildup in the body.
• Kidney Disease: Kidney problems can lead to fluid retention, causing swelling in the hands and feet.
• Liver Disease: Liver conditions, such as cirrhosis, can cause fluid buildup in the body, leading to swelling.
• Lymphedema: A condition characterized by the abnormal collection of fluid in the lymph nodes, leading to swelling, often in the hands and feet.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot in the deep veins, which can cause swelling and requires immediate medical attention to prevent pulmonary embolism.
• Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can cause swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected area, requiring prompt antibiotic treatment.
• Nephrotic Syndrome: A kidney disorder that causes the body to excrete too much protein in the urine, leading to swelling and potentially serious complications if not treated.

Rare Diagnoses

• Sarcoidosis: A condition where inflammatory cells grow in different parts of the body, potentially causing swelling in the hands and feet.
• Myxedema: A condition associated with hypothyroidism, characterized by thickening of the skin and swelling of the hands and feet.
• Erythromelalgia: A rare disorder characterized by burning pain, heat, and swelling in the hands and feet, often related to underlying conditions like myeloproliferative disorders.