Differential Diagnosis for Chronic Left Wrist Pain
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Tendinitis: This is often the most common cause of chronic wrist pain, particularly if the pain is localized to a specific area and is exacerbated by certain movements or activities. Tendinitis in the wrist can affect various tendons, including those associated with the thumb (De Quervain's tenosynovitis) or the flexor and extensor tendons of the wrist.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition, caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the wrist, can lead to chronic pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and wrist, especially at night.
- Ganglion Cyst: A common benign lump that can develop on the wrist, often causing pain, especially if it presses on a nerve.
- Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear on the joints in the wrist can lead to chronic pain and stiffness, particularly in older adults.
- Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI): Overuse or repetitive movements can cause strain on the muscles and tendons of the wrist, leading to chronic pain.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Fracture or Nonunion: Although less common as a cause of chronic pain, a fracture that did not heal properly (nonunion) or an occult fracture could be the source of pain. Missing this diagnosis could lead to prolonged disability and potential for further complications.
- Infection (e.g., Osteomyelitis or Septic Arthritis): Infections in the bone or joint can cause chronic pain and have serious consequences if not treated promptly, including destruction of the joint or spread of infection.
- Tumor (Benign or Malignant): Although rare, tumors in the wrist can cause chronic pain and would have significant implications for treatment and prognosis if missed.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Kienböck's Disease: A rare condition where the blood supply to one of the bones in the wrist (the lunate) is interrupted, leading to chronic pain and potential for collapse of the bone.
- Pisotriquetral Joint Disorders: Problems with this small joint in the wrist can cause chronic pain, though it is less commonly considered as a source of wrist pain.
- Scapholunate Ligament Injury: An injury to this ligament can lead to chronic instability and pain in the wrist, though it might be more associated with acute trauma rather than chronic pain without a clear history of injury.