Differential Diagnosis for Right Arm Pain and Fever
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Cellulitis: This is a common condition characterized by skin and subcutaneous tissue infection, often presenting with localized pain, redness, swelling, and fever. The right arm pain and fever could be indicative of cellulitis, especially if there's a history of trauma or skin breach.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Abscess: An abscess is a collection of pus that has built up within the tissue of the body, which can cause pain, swelling, and fever. It could be a possible diagnosis if the pain is localized and there's evidence of a collection of pus.
- Phlebitis: Inflammation of the veins can cause pain, swelling, and fever in the affected limb. If the pain is associated with swelling and warmth along a vein, phlebitis should be considered.
- Osteomyelitis: Although less common, an infection of the bone can cause pain and fever. This diagnosis might be considered if there's a history of trauma or if the pain is deep and localized to a specific bone area.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Necrotizing Fasciitis: A severe infection that destroys the tissue under the skin, including fat and the tissue covering the muscles (fascia). It's a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. Symptoms can include severe pain, fever, and swelling, but the skin may not necessarily look infected in the early stages.
- Septic Arthritis: An infection within a joint, which can cause severe pain, swelling, and fever. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent joint destruction.
- Endocarditis: Although less directly related to arm pain, if the fever is high and persistent, and there's a history of heart conditions or intravenous drug use, endocarditis (infection of the heart valves) should be considered due to its severe consequences.
- Rare diagnoses
- Lyme Disease: Caused by a tick bite, it can lead to pain, swelling, and fever, among other symptoms. If the patient has been in an area where Lyme disease is common and has a history of tick exposure, this should be considered.
- Erythema Induratum: A rare condition characterized by recurring nodules or ulcers on the legs (but can occur on the arms), often associated with tuberculosis. It's a diagnosis to consider if other common causes have been ruled out and there's a relevant exposure history.
- Sarcoidosis: A condition that can cause inflammation in various parts of the body, including the skin, and might present with pain, fever, and swelling, although it's less commonly associated with localized arm pain and fever.