Differential Diagnosis for a 33-year-old Female with 2-day History of Unprovoked Collar Bone Pain
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis + Musculoskeletal strain or injury: This is the most likely diagnosis given the acute onset of pain in the collar bone area without any specific provoking factors. The collar bone (clavicle) is a common site for strains or minor injuries that can cause significant pain.
- Other Likely Diagnoses + Costoclavicular syndrome: This condition involves inflammation or irritation of the structures between the clavicle and the first rib, which can cause pain in the collar bone area. + Tietze's syndrome: Although more commonly associated with pain in the chest wall, Tietze's syndrome (inflammation of the cartilages and surrounding tissues of the ribs) can sometimes cause pain that radiates to the collar bone area. + Referred pain from cervical spine: Issues with the cervical spine, such as a herniated disk or strain, can refer pain to the shoulder and collar bone area.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses + Osteomyelitis or septic arthritis of the sternoclavicular joint: Although less common, infections in the bones or joints near the collar bone can cause severe pain and have serious consequences if not treated promptly. + Pulmonary embolism: While the primary symptom of a pulmonary embolism is typically shortness of breath, it can occasionally present with chest pain that might be referred to the collar bone area, especially if the embolism affects the upper parts of the lung. + Aortic dissection: This is a life-threatening condition where there is a tear in the aorta's inner layer. It can cause severe, sudden pain that might be felt in the chest and radiate to other areas, including the collar bone.
- Rare Diagnoses + Ewing's sarcoma or other bone tumors: These are rare types of cancer that can affect the bones, including the clavicle, and cause pain. + Relapsing polychondritis: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation and pain in the cartilages, including those near the collar bone. + SAPHO syndrome (Synovitis, Acne, Pustulosis, Hyperostosis, and Osteitis): A rare condition that can cause inflammation and pain in the bones and joints, including the sternoclavicular joint.