Differential Diagnosis for Autoimmune Condition Causing Fat Fingers
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Hypothyroidism: This condition is known to cause swelling of the hands and fingers, among other symptoms like weight gain and fatigue, due to the autoimmune destruction of the thyroid gland.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disease that can cause swelling and inflammation in the hands and fingers, leading to their enlargement.
- Sjögren's Syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can cause swelling in various parts of the body, including the hands, though it's more commonly associated with dry eyes and mouth.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Scleroderma (Systemic Sclerosis): A serious autoimmune disease that can cause thickening and hardening of the skin, leading to swollen fingers, and potentially affecting internal organs.
- Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD): Overlaps with lupus, scleroderma, and rheumatoid arthritis, and can cause swollen hands and fingers among other symptoms.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Relapsing Polychondritis: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation and swelling in various cartilaginous structures, potentially affecting the hands.
- Eosinophilic Fasciitis: A rare condition characterized by inflammation of the fascia, the tissue surrounding muscles, which can cause swelling and thickening of the skin, including in the hands and fingers.