Differential Diagnosis for Patient with Headache and Facial Pain after Trauma
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Nasal fracture: This is the most likely diagnosis given the mechanism of injury (being kicked in the nose/mouth) and the symptoms of headache and facial pain. A nasal fracture can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness in the nasal area, as well as headaches due to the trauma.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Concussion: A concussion is possible if the kick to the face also resulted in a blow to the head, which could cause headache and facial pain.
- Dental trauma: The patient may have suffered dental injuries, such as a tooth fracture or luxation, which could cause facial pain.
- Soft tissue injury: The patient may have suffered soft tissue injuries, such as lacerations or contusions, to the face, which could cause pain and swelling.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak: A CSF leak is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur after a basilar skull fracture, which may be caused by a kick to the face. Symptoms may include clear nasal discharge, headache, and facial pain.
- Orbital fracture: An orbital fracture can cause facial pain, diplopia, and limited eye movement. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, such as vision loss.
- Intracranial hemorrhage: Although less likely, an intracranial hemorrhage is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur after a head injury. Symptoms may include headache, vomiting, and altered mental status.
- Rare diagnoses
- Le Fort fracture: A Le Fort fracture is a rare but serious facial fracture that can occur after significant trauma to the face. It can cause facial pain, swelling, and instability of the facial bones.
- Cavernous sinus thrombosis: This is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can occur after a facial injury, particularly if there is a fracture or laceration that compromises the cavernous sinus. Symptoms may include headache, facial pain, and cranial nerve deficits.