Differential Diagnosis for Left Pisiform Pain
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Pisiformitis: This is an inflammation of the pisiform bone, often caused by repetitive strain or direct trauma, making it a common cause of pain in this area.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Ulnar nerve entrapment: The ulnar nerve runs close to the pisiform bone, and its entrapment or compression can cause pain and numbness in the area.
- Ganglion cyst: A ganglion cyst near the pisiform bone can cause pain and discomfort, especially if it compresses nearby nerves.
- Triquetrum or other carpal bone fractures: Fractures of the carpal bones, including the triquetrum which is adjacent to the pisiform, can cause pain in the area.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Infection (osteomyelitis or septic arthritis): Although less common, infections in the wrist area can be serious and require prompt treatment to avoid long-term damage.
- Tumor (benign or malignant): Tumors of the bone or soft tissue can cause persistent pain and should not be overlooked.
- Gout or pseudogout: These conditions can cause sudden, severe pain in the wrist and should be considered, especially in patients with a history of these diseases.
- Rare diagnoses
- Pisotriquetral joint disorders: Disorders of the joint between the pisiform and triquetrum bones, such as arthritis or instability, can cause pain but are less common.
- Hook of hamate fractures: Although more associated with the ulnar side of the hand, a fracture of the hook of hamate can sometimes refer pain to the pisiform area.