Differential Diagnosis for Shoulder Strain with Sternoclavicular Joint Swelling
- The patient's presentation of shoulder strain with sternoclavicular joint swelling can be caused by various conditions. Here's a categorized differential diagnosis:
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Traumatic Sternoclavicular Joint Sprain: This is the most likely diagnosis, as the patient has a shoulder strain and sternoclavicular joint swelling, which is often caused by a traumatic event, such as a fall or direct blow to the shoulder or chest.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Sternoclavicular Joint Subluxation or Dislocation: This condition can cause swelling and pain in the sternoclavicular joint, and is often associated with trauma or sports injuries.
- Sternoclavicular Joint Arthritis: Various forms of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, can cause inflammation and swelling in the sternoclavicular joint.
- Sternoclavicular Joint Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa surrounding the sternoclavicular joint can cause swelling and pain.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Aortic Dissection or Rupture: Although rare, aortic dissection or rupture can present with chest or shoulder pain and swelling, and is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention.
- Pulmonary Embolism: A pulmonary embolism can cause chest pain and swelling, and is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Myocardial Infarction: A heart attack can cause chest pain and swelling, and is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
Rare Diagnoses
- Sternoclavicular Joint Infection: Infection of the sternoclavicular joint is a rare condition that can cause swelling, pain, and fever.
- Sternoclavicular Joint Tumor: A tumor in the sternoclavicular joint is a rare condition that can cause swelling, pain, and limited mobility.
- Sternocostoclavicular Hyperostosis: This is a rare condition characterized by inflammation and hyperostosis of the sternocostoclavicular joint, which can cause swelling and pain.