Differential Diagnosis for Elevated Right Hemidiaphragm
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Pulmonary effusion or pleural effusion: This is the most common cause of an elevated hemidiaphragm, as fluid accumulation in the pleural space can push the diaphragm upwards.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Atelectasis or lung collapse: Collapse of the lung tissue can cause the diaphragm to appear elevated on imaging studies.
- Pneumonia or lung abscess: Infection and inflammation in the lung can cause the diaphragm to become elevated.
- Hepatomegaly or liver enlargement: An enlarged liver can push the diaphragm upwards, especially if the liver is significantly enlarged.
- Subphrenic abscess: An abscess located below the diaphragm can cause it to become elevated.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Diaphragmatic rupture or hernia: A rupture or hernia of the diaphragm can be life-threatening and requires prompt surgical intervention.
- Pulmonary embolism: A blockage of the pulmonary artery can cause sudden and severe symptoms, including elevation of the hemidiaphragm.
- Cholecystitis or gallbladder inflammation: Inflammation of the gallbladder can cause referred pain and elevation of the right hemidiaphragm.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Diaphragmatic eventration: A rare congenital condition where the diaphragm is abnormal and can become elevated.
- Diaphragmatic paralysis: Weakness or paralysis of the diaphragm can cause it to become elevated, often due to neurological conditions.
- Liver or pulmonary tumors: Rarely, tumors in the liver or lung can cause elevation of the hemidiaphragm.
- Subdiaphragmatic lymphoma: A rare type of cancer that can cause elevation of the hemidiaphragm.