Differential Diagnosis for Possible L3 Spondylolysis with Grade 1 Spondylolisthesis and Degenerative Disc Disease
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Spondylolysis with spondylolisthesis: This is the most direct diagnosis based on the information provided, indicating a defect in the pars interarticularis of the L3 vertebra with a grade 1 slip of the vertebra over the one below it.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Degenerative spondylolisthesis: Given the presence of degenerative disc disease at L3-4 and L5-S1, it's possible that the spondylolisthesis is not solely due to spondylolysis but also contributed by degenerative changes.
- Lumbar disc herniation: The degenerative disc disease mentioned could also lead to disc herniation, which might cause similar symptoms to spondylolysis and spondylolisthesis.
- Facet joint syndrome: Degenerative changes can also affect the facet joints, leading to pain and stiffness in the lower back.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cauda equina syndrome: Although less likely, this is a serious condition that could result from severe lumbar disc herniation or other space-occupying lesions, requiring urgent medical attention.
- Spinal infection (e.g., discitis, osteomyelitis): Infections in the spine can present with back pain and neurological symptoms, and it's crucial to identify them early due to their potential for serious complications.
- Spinal tumor: Tumors in the spine can cause back pain, neurological deficits, and can mimic other spinal conditions, making them important not to miss.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Scheuermann's disease: A rare condition that affects the thoracic or lumbar spine, leading to kyphosis, which could potentially be confused with spondylolisthesis in some cases.
- Spinal dysraphism: A group of congenital anomalies that can lead to a variety of neurological and orthopedic symptoms, including back pain and neurological deficits.