Differential Diagnosis for Left Breast Pain
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Fibrocystic changes: This is the most common cause of breast pain, characterized by lumpy or rope-like breast tissue. It is often associated with hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Cyst: A fluid-filled sac within the breast that can cause pain, especially if it becomes large or ruptures.
- Fibroadenoma: A benign tumor that can cause pain, especially if it is large or if there are multiple tumors.
- Mastitis: An infection of the breast tissue, which can cause pain, swelling, and redness.
- Costochondritis: Inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone, which can cause breast pain.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Breast cancer: Although less common, breast cancer can cause pain, especially if it is advanced or if it involves the chest wall.
- Pulmonary embolism: A blood clot in the lungs can cause chest pain that radiates to the breast.
- Myocardial infarction: A heart attack can cause chest pain that radiates to the breast, especially in women.
- Rare diagnoses
- Sickle cell disease: A genetic disorder that can cause breast pain due to sickling of red blood cells in the breast tissue.
- Granulomatous mastitis: A rare inflammatory condition that can cause breast pain, swelling, and nipple discharge.
- Breast abscess: A collection of pus in the breast tissue, which can cause pain, swelling, and redness.