Differential Diagnosis for Left Lateral Hip Pain Radiating Down the Back of the Left Leg to the Thigh
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Piriformis Syndrome: This condition is characterized by the piriformis muscle compressing the sciatic nerve, leading to pain in the hip and radiating down the back of the leg. The symptoms match the presentation, making it a likely diagnosis.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Lumbar Radiculopathy: Compression or irritation of the nerve roots in the lumbar spine can cause pain that radiates down the leg, similar to the symptoms described.
- Trochanteric Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursa over the greater trochanter of the femur can cause lateral hip pain that may radiate down the thigh.
- Gluteus Medius Tendinopathy: Inflammation or degeneration of the gluteus medius tendon can cause pain on the lateral aspect of the hip and thigh.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cauda Equina Syndrome: A serious condition where the nerves in the spinal canal are compressed, leading to severe pain, numbness, and potentially permanent nerve damage if not promptly treated.
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Although less common, an abdominal aortic aneurysm can cause referred pain to the hip and thigh, especially if it is expanding or rupturing.
- Spinal Infection or Abscess: Infections like osteomyelitis, discitis, or an epidural abscess can cause severe back pain that radiates, and are medical emergencies.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head: A condition where the blood supply to the femoral head is interrupted, leading to necrosis of the bone tissue, which can cause hip pain.
- Neoplastic Processes: Tumors, either benign or malignant, in the bone, soft tissue, or spine can cause pain that radiates down the leg, though these are less common causes of the described symptoms.