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Differential Diagnosis for Wrist Injury with Lateral Side to Side Movement Pain

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Scapholunate Ligament Sprain or Tear: This is a common injury that occurs when the wrist is subjected to a fall onto an outstretched hand, causing pain with lateral side to side movement due to the instability of the scapholunate joint.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) Injury: The TFCC is a ligamentous structure on the ulnar side of the wrist that can be injured with a fall or sudden twisting motion, leading to pain with lateral movement.
  • Wrist Fracture (e.g., Scaphoid Fracture): A fracture of one of the carpal bones, such as the scaphoid, can cause pain with movement, especially with lateral side to side motion.
  • Ganglion Cyst: A ganglion cyst is a benign lump that can form on the wrist, causing pain and discomfort, especially with certain movements.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Infectious Arthritis: Although less common, infectious arthritis of the wrist joint can cause severe pain and limited mobility, and if not promptly treated, can lead to serious complications.
  • Osteonecrosis (e.g., Kienböck's Disease): A condition where the blood supply to one of the carpal bones (usually the lunate) is disrupted, leading to bone death and potentially severe wrist pain.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Madelung's Deformity: A rare congenital condition affecting the distal radius and ulna, leading to abnormal wrist alignment and potential pain with movement.
  • Tumor (e.g., Giant Cell Tumor of the Tendon Sheath): Although rare, tumors of the wrist can cause pain and limited mobility, and their diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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