Differential Diagnosis for Increased Pain in Rib 1 Week After Fall
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Rib Fracture: This is the most likely diagnosis given the history of a fall and the location of the pain. A fracture can cause increased pain, especially if the fracture is not properly aligned or if there is movement at the fracture site.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Muscle Strain: The muscles between the ribs can be strained during a fall, leading to increased pain in the rib area.
- Costochondritis: Inflammation of the cartilage that connects the ribs to the breastbone can cause pain in the rib area, which may be exacerbated by a fall.
- Pneumothorax: Although less common, a pneumothorax (collapsed lung) can occur after a fall and cause increased pain in the rib area, especially if the pneumothorax is small and not immediately diagnosed.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Hemopneumothorax: A collection of blood and air in the pleural space can be life-threatening and requires immediate attention. It may not be immediately suspected but is crucial to diagnose promptly.
- Pulmonary Embolism: Although less directly related to the fall, immobilization after a fall can increase the risk of a pulmonary embolism, which is a life-threatening condition.
- Aortic Injury: A severe fall can potentially injure the aorta, leading to a life-threatening condition that requires immediate surgical intervention.
Rare Diagnoses
- Osteomyelitis: An infection of the bone can occur after a fracture and cause increased pain, but it is less common and typically occurs later in the course of healing.
- Tumor: A pre-existing tumor in the rib could potentially cause pain, but this would be an uncommon cause of new pain after a fall.
- Sickle Cell Crisis: In individuals with sickle cell disease, a fall could potentially trigger a crisis, leading to increased pain in the ribs due to bone infarcts.