Differential Diagnosis for Elbow Pain Radiating to Forearm
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow): This condition is characterized by pain on the outer part of the elbow, which radiates down the forearm. It is often associated with repetitive motions, such as those involved in construction work. The patient's occupation and the nature of the pain suggest this diagnosis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer's Elbow): Similar to lateral epicondylitis but involves pain on the inner part of the elbow. Although less likely given the description of pain radiating down the forearm from the elbow, it is still a consideration.
- Radial Tunnel Syndrome: This condition involves compression of the radial nerve and can cause pain in the back of the hand and the thumb side of the hand and forearm. It might be considered if the pain pattern is more complex.
- Elbow Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae in the elbow can cause pain and swelling. The presence of erythema around the affected area might suggest an inflammatory process, but the absence of significant swelling or a history of trauma makes this less likely.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Infectious Arthritis: Although less likely, an infectious cause of elbow pain, such as septic arthritis, could be deadly if missed. The presence of erythema and worsening pain despite over-the-counter pain medication might raise concerns, but the lack of systemic symptoms (e.g., fever) and the specific pattern of pain make this less probable.
- Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and forearm. Missing this diagnosis could lead to long-term nerve damage.
- Fracture or Dislocation: Although the patient's history does not suggest a recent traumatic event, any fracture or dislocation could be masked by the patient's reluctance to disclose full information due to concerns about his immigration status.
Rare Diagnoses
- Tumors (e.g., Osteochondroma, Chondrosarcoma): Although rare, tumors affecting the elbow or forearm could cause persistent pain. These would be considered if the patient does not respond to conventional treatments for more common conditions.
- Neurological Conditions (e.g., Peripheral Neuropathy, Multiple Sclerosis): These conditions could cause forearm pain but would typically be accompanied by other neurological symptoms. They are less likely given the specific presentation of pain related to the elbow and forearm without mention of other neurological deficits.