Differential Diagnosis for Bilateral Posterior Gluteal Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Piriformis Syndrome: This condition is characterized by the piriformis muscle compressing the sciatic nerve, leading to pain in the posterior gluteal region. It is a common cause of buttock pain and can be bilateral, especially if the individual has a habit of crossing their legs or has a job that involves prolonged sitting.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Gluteal Strain: Strains to the gluteus maximus or medius muscles can cause pain in the posterior gluteal area. This is often related to overuse or direct trauma to the muscles.
- Trochanteric Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae around the greater trochanter of the femur can cause lateral hip pain but can also radiate to the posterior gluteal area.
- Lower Back Strain: Strains to the lower back muscles can refer pain to the gluteal area due to the common nerve roots involved.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cauda Equina Syndrome: A serious condition where the nerves in the spinal canal are compressed, leading to pain, numbness, and potentially bladder and bowel dysfunction. It requires immediate medical attention.
- Spinal Infections (e.g., Osteomyelitis, Discitis): Infections of the spine can cause severe back pain that may radiate to the gluteal area, along with systemic symptoms like fever.
- Spinal Tumors: Tumors in the spine can cause pain that is worse at night and may radiate to the gluteal area, depending on the tumor's location.
Rare Diagnoses
- Ischiogluteal Bursitis: Inflammation of the ischiogluteal bursa, which is located between the ischial tuberosity and the gluteus maximus muscle, can cause deep gluteal pain.
- Gluteal Vascular Occlusion: Rare conditions like gluteal artery occlusion can cause pain in the gluteal region, especially with exercise.
- Neurogenic Tumors: Tumors arising from the nerves, such as neurofibromas or schwannomas, can cause gluteal pain if they compress or involve the sciatic nerve or its branches.