What are the implications of a probable thrombosed pseudoaneurysm of the right radial artery?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: April 3, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Probable Thrombosed Pseudoaneurysm, Right Radial Artery

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Thrombosed pseudoaneurysm of the radial artery: This is the most likely diagnosis given the presentation, as it directly matches the description provided. A pseudoaneurysm is a leakage of arterial blood from an artery into the surrounding tissue with a persistent communication between the originating artery and the resultant adjacent cavity. Thrombosis within this pseudoaneurysm could lead to its presentation as a palpable mass.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Hematoma: A collection of blood outside of blood cells, which could be due to trauma or bleeding from the radial artery, presenting similarly to a thrombosed pseudoaneurysm.
    • Arteriovenous fistula (AVF): An abnormal connection between an artery and a vein, which could potentially present with similar symptoms if it becomes thrombosed or if there's significant shunting of blood.
    • Radial artery thrombosis: A clot within the radial artery itself, which could present with similar symptoms, especially if there's associated swelling or a palpable mass.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
    • Embolic event: Although less likely, an embolic event originating from the radial artery could lead to severe ischemia of the hand, necessitating urgent intervention.
    • Infection (mycotic pseudoaneurysm): A pseudoaneurysm that becomes infected, which is a serious condition requiring prompt antibiotic treatment and possible surgical intervention.
    • Malignancy: Rarely, a mass in this area could be due to a malignant process, such as a soft tissue sarcoma, which would have a significantly different treatment approach.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Vascular malformation: A congenital anomaly of the blood vessels that could potentially present in adulthood, requiring specific diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
    • Traumatic aneurysm of another nearby artery: Although the radial artery is specified, trauma could potentially affect other nearby arteries, leading to aneurysm formation.
    • Vasculitis: Inflammation of the blood vessels, which could lead to aneurysm or pseudoaneurysm formation, although this would be less common in the radial artery.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.