Differential Diagnosis for a Puffy Right Hand
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Trauma or injury: This is often the most common reason for a puffy hand, as it can lead to swelling due to inflammation or fluid accumulation from damaged tissues.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Infection (cellulitis or abscess): Bacterial infections can cause swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected area.
- Allergic reaction: An allergic reaction to an insect bite, food, or substance can cause swelling in the hand.
- Arthritis (rheumatoid or osteoarthritis): Certain types of arthritis can cause swelling and puffiness in the hands, especially in the fingers.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Compartment syndrome: A serious condition that occurs when pressure within the muscles builds to dangerous levels, cutting off blood flow and potentially leading to permanent damage.
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot in the deep veins of the arm can cause swelling and requires immediate medical attention to prevent pulmonary embolism.
- Sepsis: In severe cases of infection, sepsis can occur, which is a life-threatening condition that arises when the body's response to infection causes injury to its own tissues and organs.
- Rare diagnoses
- Lymphedema: A chronic condition characterized by swelling in one or more extremities, resulting from impaired flow in the lymphatic system.
- Sarcoidosis: A disease characterized by the growth of tiny collections of inflammatory cells (granulomas) in any part of the body, which can cause swelling in the hands.
- Angioedema: A rare condition characterized by the rapid swelling of the skin and mucous membranes, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.