Differential Diagnosis for Pain in the Inguinal Area
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Inguinal Hernia: This is the most common cause of inguinal pain, especially in men. An inguinal hernia occurs when tissue, such as part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. The pain can be exacerbated by coughing, lifting, or straining.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Epididymitis: Inflammation of the epididymis, a tube at the back of the testicle that stores and carries sperm, can cause pain in the inguinal area. It's often associated with urinary tract infections or sexually transmitted infections.
- Orchitis: Inflammation of one or both testicles, usually caused by bacterial or viral infections, can lead to inguinal pain.
- Inguinal Canal Lipoma: A benign tumor made of fat tissue in the inguinal canal can cause discomfort or pain in the area.
- Sports Hernia (Athletic Pubalgia): A condition that occurs from repetitive stress or overuse, leading to chronic groin pain, often seen in athletes.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Testicular Torsion: A medical emergency where the spermatic cord becomes twisted, cutting off the blood supply to the testicle. It requires immediate attention to save the testicle.
- Appendicitis: Although the appendix is located in the lower right abdomen, an inflamed appendix can sometimes cause referred pain in the inguinal area, especially if it's a retrocecal appendix.
- Ovarian Cyst or Torsion (in females): Ovarian cysts can cause severe pain if they rupture or torsion occurs, cutting off blood supply to the ovary.
- Diverticulitis: Inflammation of a diverticulum in the digestive tract can cause lower abdominal pain that might radiate to the inguinal area.
Rare Diagnoses
- Lymphoma: Certain types of lymphoma can cause lymph node enlargement in the inguinal area, leading to pain.
- Inguinal Endometriosis: A rare condition where endometrial tissue grows in the inguinal canal, causing cyclic pain.
- Nerve Entrapment: Entrapment of nerves in the inguinal area, such as the ilioinguinal nerve, can cause chronic pain.
- Psoas Abscess: A rare condition where an abscess forms in the psoas muscle, which can cause lower back and inguinal pain.