Differential Diagnosis for Wrist Bulging

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Ganglion cyst: This is the most common cause of a bulge or lump on the wrist, resulting from a fluid-filled sac that forms over a joint or tendon.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Wrist tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons in the wrist can cause swelling and bulging, often due to overuse or repetitive strain.
  • Wrist sprain: A sprain can cause swelling and bulging in the wrist area, typically resulting from a sudden injury or fall.
  • Lipoma: A benign fatty tumor that can occur under the skin of the wrist, causing a bulge.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Infection (e.g., abscess or cellulitis): Although less common, an infection in the wrist area can cause swelling and bulging, and if left untreated, can lead to serious complications.
  • Tumor (e.g., sarcoma): A rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can cause a bulge in the wrist.
  • Compartment syndrome: A condition where increased pressure within the wrist compartment can lead to nerve and muscle damage, requiring prompt medical attention.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Giant cell tumor of the tendon sheath: A rare, benign tumor that can occur in the wrist, causing a bulge.
  • Synovial chondromatosis: A rare condition where cartilage grows in the joint, leading to swelling and bulging in the wrist.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis: Although not typically causing a single bulge, rheumatoid arthritis can cause swelling and deformity in the wrist, which may be mistaken for a bulge.