Differential Diagnosis for Leg Swelling and Tight Skin
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Cellulitis: This is a common condition characterized by bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissues, leading to swelling, redness, warmth, and sometimes tight skin due to the inflammatory response.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): DVT can cause leg swelling due to the obstruction of blood flow. The skin may feel tight due to the swelling, and there might be associated pain and warmth.
- Lymphedema: This condition involves the abnormal collection of protein-rich fluid in the interstitial tissue, leading to swelling of one or more extremities. The skin can become tight and thickened over time.
- Chronic Venous Insufficiency: This condition results from the veins having problems returning blood from the legs back to the heart due to valve issues. It can lead to swelling, skin thickening, and a tight sensation in the legs.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Compartment Syndrome: Although less common, compartment syndrome is a medical emergency where increased pressure within a muscle compartment leads to inadequate blood supply to the tissues inside the compartment. It can cause severe pain, swelling, and tight skin.
- Necrotizing Fasciitis: A severe infection that affects the tissue beneath the skin and the fascia, a layer of tissue covering muscles, nerves, fat, and blood vessels in the affected area. It's characterized by severe pain, swelling, and skin tightness, and it requires immediate medical attention.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Lipodermatosclerosis: A condition characterized by inflammation and scarring of the subcutaneous fat, often associated with chronic venous insufficiency. It can lead to skin tightening and swelling.
- Scleroderma: A group of diseases that result in the hardening and tightening of skin and connective tissue. While it can cause skin tightness, it's less commonly associated with acute leg swelling compared to other conditions listed here.
- Panniculitis: Inflammation of the subcutaneous fat, which can cause swelling, skin tightness, and pain. It has various causes, including autoimmune diseases, infections, and trauma.