Differential Diagnosis for a 24-year-old Male with Neck Pain Radiating to the Right Arm

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Cervical Radiculopathy: This condition, often due to a herniated disc, can cause neck pain that radiates to the arm. The age and symptom presentation make this a common and likely diagnosis.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Cervical Strain: Muscle strain in the neck can cause pain that radiates to the arm, especially if the strain involves muscles that refer pain to the arm.
• Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Compression of the nerves or blood vessels that pass into the arm can cause pain in the neck and arm.
• Referred Pain from the Shoulder: Conditions like shoulder impingement or rotator cuff injuries can refer pain to the neck and arm.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Cervical Spinal Cord Injury: Although less common, any injury to the cervical spine can cause severe and permanent neurological damage if not promptly addressed.
• Spinal Infection (e.g., Abscess or Osteomyelitis): Infections in the spine can cause severe pain and neurological deficits, requiring urgent medical attention.
• Tumor (Metastatic or Primary): Tumors in the spine can cause pain and neurological symptoms, and early diagnosis is crucial for treatment and prognosis.

Rare Diagnoses

• Multiple Sclerosis: An autoimmune disease that can cause a wide range of neurological symptoms, including pain and numbness in the arm.
• Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A genetic disorder that can cause hypermobile joints and potentially lead to musculoskeletal pain, including neck and arm pain.
• Arterial Dissection: A tear in the lining of the arteries in the neck, which can cause stroke or other severe complications if not promptly treated.

Each of these diagnoses has a different set of implications for treatment and prognosis, highlighting the importance of a thorough diagnostic evaluation.