Differential Diagnosis for Bilateral Leg Pain, Swelling, and Redness
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Cellulitis: This is a common bacterial skin infection that can cause pain, swelling, and redness, especially in the legs. It's often unilateral but can be bilateral, particularly if there's an underlying condition such as immunocompromisation or poor circulation.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): DVT can cause swelling, pain, and redness in the affected leg due to a blood clot in the deep veins. While it's more common unilaterally, bilateral DVTs can occur, especially in patients with risk factors like recent surgery, immobilization, or cancer.
- Chronic Venous Insufficiency: This condition leads to pooling of blood in the legs, causing swelling, pain, and skin changes, including redness. It's a common cause of bilateral leg symptoms.
- Lymphedema: This is a condition characterized by swelling of the legs due to impaired lymphatic drainage. It can cause pain and changes in skin texture and color, including redness.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Necrotizing Fasciitis: A severe bacterial infection that destroys tissue under the skin, including fat and the tissue covering the muscles (fascia). It's a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.
- Septic Thrombophlebitis: An infection of the veins that can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition. It's crucial to identify and treat promptly.
- Compartment Syndrome: Increased pressure within a muscle compartment that can lead to muscle and nerve damage. It's an emergency that requires immediate medical intervention.
Rare Diagnoses
- Erythema Nodosum: An inflammatory condition characterized by the formation of nodules under the skin, often on the legs. It can be associated with various underlying conditions, including infections and autoimmune diseases.
- Lipedema: A chronic condition characterized by the abnormal growth of fat cells in the legs, leading to swelling and pain. It's often mistaken for lymphedema but has distinct characteristics.
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): A condition characterized by chronic pain, inflammation, and hypersensitivity, usually following an injury. It can affect one or both legs and is known for its intense, burning pain.