Differential Diagnosis for Burning Sensation under Arms and Hands
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Neuropathy: This could be due to various causes such as diabetes, vitamin deficiencies (especially B12), or alcohol abuse. The burning sensation is a common symptom of peripheral neuropathy, which affects the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Fibromyalgia: A condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory, and mood issues. The burning sensation can be part of the symptomatology, especially in the arms and hands.
- Hypothyroidism: Some patients with hypothyroidism may experience neuropathic symptoms, including burning sensations in the extremities, due to the metabolic slowdown affecting nerve function.
- Vitamin Deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamins like B6 or B12 can lead to neuropathic symptoms, including burning sensations in the hands and under the arms.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Multiple Sclerosis: Although less common, multiple sclerosis (MS) can present with a wide range of neurological symptoms, including burning sensations. MS is an autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord, and missing this diagnosis could lead to significant morbidity.
- Guillain-Barré Syndrome: A rare but serious condition where the immune system attacks the nerves, leading to muscle weakness and sometimes a burning sensation. It requires immediate medical attention.
- Lyme Disease: Caused by a bacterial infection from a tick bite, Lyme disease can lead to neurological symptoms, including neuropathic pain or burning sensations, especially if not treated promptly.
Rare Diagnoses
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): A chronic pain condition that most often affects one of the arms, legs, hands, or feet after an injury or trauma. It can cause a burning sensation and is characterized by disproportionate pain.
- Sjögren's Syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can cause nerve damage, leading to neuropathic symptoms, including burning sensations in the extremities.
- Amyloidosis: A group of diseases that result from the abnormal accumulation of amyloid proteins in various tissues, which can lead to neuropathy and burning sensations, among other symptoms.