Differential Diagnosis for Neck Pain in a Child
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Musculoskeletal strain: This is the most common cause of neck pain in children, often resulting from poor posture, overuse, or minor trauma. It is typically self-limiting and resolves with rest and conservative management.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Viral pharyngitis: Infections such as streptococcal pharyngitis or viral pharyngitis can cause neck pain due to lymphadenopathy or inflammation of the throat.
- Torticollis: A condition characterized by a twisted neck, which can be congenital or acquired. It is often seen in infants but can also occur in older children.
- Cervical lymphadenitis: Inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck, usually due to a bacterial or viral infection, can cause neck pain.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Meningitis: Although less common, meningitis is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms can include neck stiffness, fever, and headache.
- Retropharyngeal abscess: A serious infection that can cause neck pain, difficulty swallowing, and respiratory distress. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications.
- Spinal cord injury or fracture: Trauma to the neck can result in serious spinal injuries, which may present with neck pain, numbness, or weakness in the extremities.
- Cancer (e.g., lymphoma, neuroblastoma): Although rare, certain types of cancer can cause neck pain in children due to mass effect or metastasis.
Rare Diagnoses
- Klippel-Feil syndrome: A rare congenital condition characterized by the fusion of two or more cervical vertebrae, which can cause neck pain and stiffness.
- Cervical spine infection (e.g., discitis, osteomyelitis): Infections of the cervical spine are rare but can cause significant neck pain and require prompt antibiotic treatment.
- Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: A genetic disorder that affects connective tissue, which can lead to joint hypermobility and neck pain.
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis: A chronic autoimmune condition that can cause neck pain and stiffness due to inflammation of the joints.