Differential Diagnosis for Mid Posterior Wrist Pain with a "Pop"
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Ganglion cyst: This is a common cause of wrist pain, especially when associated with a palpable mass or a "pop" sound, which could indicate a cyst rupture. The mid posterior location is typical for ganglion cysts.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Scapholunate ligament sprain or tear: This injury can cause pain in the mid posterior wrist, especially with a history of trauma or a "pop" sound at the time of injury, indicating ligament damage.
- Extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) tendonitis: Inflammation of the ECU tendon can cause pain on the posterior aspect of the wrist, particularly with activities that involve wrist extension and ulnar deviation.
- Wrist extensor tenosynovitis: Inflammation of the tendon sheaths of the wrist extensors can cause pain and swelling on the posterior wrist.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Fracture (e.g., scaphoid, distal radius): Although less likely without significant trauma, a fracture must be considered, especially if there's a history of a fall onto an outstretched hand or direct blow to the wrist. Missing a fracture can lead to complications like nonunion or avascular necrosis.
- Infection (septic arthritis or osteomyelitis): Though rare, infection in the wrist joint or bone can present with pain and swelling and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to prevent serious complications.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Kienböck's disease (avascular necrosis of the lunate): A rare condition that can cause chronic wrist pain, especially on the radial side, but can sometimes present more centrally or posteriorly.
- Pisotriquetral joint disorders: Problems with this small joint in the wrist, such as arthritis or synovitis, can cause ulnar-sided wrist pain but might occasionally be felt more posteriorly.
- Tumors (benign or malignant): Very rare, but tumors can cause wrist pain and should be considered if other diagnoses are ruled out and pain persists.