Differential Diagnosis for Acute Left Wrist Swelling and Tenderness
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Traumatic injury (e.g., sprain or fracture): This is the most likely diagnosis due to the acute onset of swelling and tenderness, which are common symptoms of traumatic injuries to the wrist.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Osteoarthritis: Although less likely to cause acute symptoms, osteoarthritis can lead to wrist swelling and tenderness, especially if there's a recent increase in activity or a flare-up of the condition.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: This chronic autoimmune disorder can cause wrist swelling, tenderness, and stiffness, and although it's not typically acute, a flare-up could present with these symptoms.
- Gout: An acute gout attack can cause sudden onset of swelling, redness, and tenderness in the wrist, although it's more commonly associated with the big toe.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Septic arthritis: Although less common, septic arthritis is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment. It can cause acute wrist swelling, tenderness, and fever, and missing this diagnosis could lead to serious complications.
- Compartment syndrome: This is a rare but potentially devastating condition that can occur after a traumatic injury, causing increased pressure within the wrist compartments, which can lead to nerve and muscle damage if not promptly treated.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Scaphoid fracture with avascular necrosis: While not the most common fracture, a scaphoid fracture can occur, and if not properly treated, can lead to avascular necrosis, which is a rare but serious complication.
- Kienbock's disease (avascular necrosis of the lunate bone): This rare condition can cause wrist pain and swelling due to the loss of blood supply to the lunate bone.
- Ganglion cyst: Although typically not acute, a ganglion cyst can cause wrist swelling and tenderness, especially if it becomes inflamed or ruptures.