Differential Diagnosis for Bicep Pain
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Bicipital Tendinitis: This is the most common cause of bicep pain, often resulting from overuse or repetitive strain on the bicep tendon, leading to inflammation and pain.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Bicep Strain: A strain or pull in the bicep muscle can cause pain, usually due to sudden contraction or overstretching of the muscle.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae around the shoulder or elbow can cause bicep pain, especially if the bursae are irritated or inflamed.
- Radiculopathy: Nerve root irritation or compression in the neck (cervical spine) can refer pain to the bicep area.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Brachial Artery Aneurysm or Thrombosis: Although rare, a ruptured aneurysm or thrombosis of the brachial artery can cause severe bicep pain and is a medical emergency.
- Compartment Syndrome: Increased pressure within the muscle compartments of the arm can cause severe pain, numbness, and potentially lead to permanent damage if not promptly treated.
- Rare diagnoses
- Tumor: Rarely, a tumor (benign or malignant) in the bicep muscle or surrounding tissues can cause pain.
- Infection: Infections such as abscesses or osteomyelitis in the bicep area can cause pain, although these are uncommon presentations.
- Neurological Disorders: Certain neurological conditions, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), can cause muscle pain and weakness, including in the bicep area, but these are rare and typically present with a broader range of symptoms.