Differential Diagnosis for Lumps in Hands and Transient Joint Pain
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): This is the most likely diagnosis given the symptoms of lumps in hands (possibly rheumatoid nodules), transient joint pain, and weakness, especially with activities that require grip strength like opening jars. RA is a common autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation and pain in the joints.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Osteoarthritis (OA): Although OA is more commonly associated with wear and tear of the joints and might not typically cause lumps, it can lead to joint pain and weakness, especially in the hands. The symptoms could be suggestive of OA, particularly if the patient is older.
- Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA): This condition combines the swollen, scaly skin of psoriasis with joint pain and arthritis. Patients might experience lumps or nodules, and the joint pain can be transient, moving from one joint to another.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Septic Arthritis: Although less likely, septic arthritis is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. It involves a joint infection that can cause pain, swelling, and warmth, and if not treated promptly, can lead to severe joint damage or systemic infection.
- Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA): This condition involves inflammation of the blood vessels and can lead to symptoms like joint pain and weakness. It's particularly dangerous because it can cause blindness if not treated promptly.
- Rare diagnoses
- Sarcoidosis: A condition that can cause inflammation in various parts of the body, including the joints. It might present with joint pain and lumps, but it's less common and would require specific diagnostic tests to confirm.
- Amyloidosis: A group of diseases that result from the abnormal accumulation of amyloid proteins in the body. It can cause a variety of symptoms, including joint pain and lumps, but it's rare and would require specific testing for diagnosis.