Differential Diagnosis for Chest Wall Pain after Minor MVC

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Musculoskeletal strain: This is the most likely diagnosis given the context of a minor motor vehicle collision (MVC). The force of the collision can cause strain to the muscles and ligaments of the chest wall, leading to pain.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Rib fracture: Although less common in minor MVCs, rib fractures can occur, especially if the patient was not wearing a seatbelt or was involved in a higher-impact collision.
• Costochondritis: Inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the sternum, which can be caused by the trauma of the MVC.
• Precordial catch syndrome: A condition characterized by sharp, stabbing chest pain that can be caused by strain or injury to the chest wall.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Myocardial infarction (MI): Although less likely in the context of a minor MVC, MI is a potentially life-threatening condition that must be considered, especially in patients with risk factors.
• Pulmonary embolism (PE): Another potentially life-threatening condition that can present with chest pain, although it is less common in the context of a minor MVC.
• Aortic dissection: A rare but potentially fatal condition that can be caused by trauma, including MVCs.
• Pneumothorax: A collapsed lung that can be caused by trauma to the chest, which can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.

Rare Diagnoses

• Sternal fracture: A fracture of the sternum, which is relatively rare but can occur in high-impact collisions.
• Thoracic spine fracture: A fracture of the thoracic spine, which can be caused by trauma but is relatively rare in minor MVCs.
• Diaphragmatic rupture: A rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can be caused by trauma to the chest.