Differential Diagnosis for Non-Traumatic Bruising
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Vitamin K deficiency or warfarin use: This is often seen in patients on anticoagulant therapy or those with nutritional deficiencies, leading to an increased risk of bleeding and bruising.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP): An autoimmune condition characterized by low platelet count, which can cause bruising and bleeding.
- Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: A group of genetic disorders affecting connective tissue, leading to fragile skin and blood vessels, which can result in easy bruising.
- Older age: As people age, their skin and blood vessels become more fragile, making them more susceptible to bruising.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Leukemia: Certain types of leukemia can cause bone marrow failure, leading to a decrease in platelets and an increased risk of bruising and bleeding.
- Hemophilia: A genetic disorder that impairs the body's ability to make blood clots, leading to prolonged bleeding and bruising.
- Liver disease: Conditions like cirrhosis can lead to coagulopathy, increasing the risk of bruising and bleeding.
- Abuse or neglect: In some cases, non-traumatic bruising may be a sign of physical abuse or neglect, particularly in vulnerable populations like the elderly or children.
Rare Diagnoses
- Scurvy: A disease caused by vitamin C deficiency, which can lead to connective tissue weakness and increased bruising.
- Pseudoxanthoma elasticum: A rare genetic disorder affecting connective tissue, leading to skin and blood vessel fragility.
- Amyloidosis: A condition characterized by the deposition of abnormal proteins in tissues, which can cause blood vessel fragility and bruising.