Differential Diagnosis for Cervical Radiculopathy vs Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Cervical Radiculopathy: This is the most likely diagnosis if the patient presents with symptoms such as neck pain, radiating pain to the arm, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm or hand, particularly if these symptoms are exacerbated by neck movements.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This is the most likely diagnosis if the patient presents with symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand, particularly in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, and if these symptoms are worse at night or with activities that flex the wrist.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: This diagnosis should be considered if the patient presents with symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm or hand, particularly if these symptoms are exacerbated by movements that involve the shoulder or neck.
- Ulnar Neuropathy: This diagnosis should be considered if the patient presents with symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand, particularly in the ring and little fingers.
- Brachial Plexopathy: This diagnosis should be considered if the patient presents with symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm or hand, particularly if these symptoms are widespread and involve multiple nerve roots.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cervical Spinal Cord Compression: This is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention. It should be considered if the patient presents with symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs, particularly if these symptoms are bilateral or rapidly progressive.
- Pancoast Tumor: This is a type of lung cancer that can cause compression of the brachial plexus, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm or hand.
- Infectious or Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions such as abscesses, osteomyelitis, or rheumatoid arthritis can cause symptoms similar to cervical radiculopathy or carpal tunnel syndrome, and require prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent serious complications.
Rare Diagnoses
- Tumor or Cyst: Rarely, a tumor or cyst can compress a nerve root or the brachial plexus, leading to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm or hand.
- Vascular Conditions: Conditions such as thoracic outlet syndrome due to vascular compression or vasculitis can cause symptoms similar to cervical radiculopathy or carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Neuromuscular Disorders: Conditions such as muscular dystrophy or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis can cause symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm or hand, although these conditions are typically more widespread and progressive.