Differential Diagnosis for Rash Between Toes
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Athlete's foot (tinea pedis): This is the most common diagnosis for a rash between the toes, caused by a fungal infection. It is often seen in individuals who wear tight-fitting shoes, sweat excessively, or have poor foot hygiene.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Contact dermatitis: This can occur due to an allergic reaction or irritation from substances like soap, detergent, or certain materials in shoes.
- Eczema (dyshidrotic eczema): Characterized by small, itchy blisters on the feet, especially between the toes.
- Intertrigo: A skin infection caused by friction, heat, and moisture, often seen in skin folds, including between the toes.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can spread rapidly and become severe if not treated promptly. It requires immediate medical attention.
- Erythrasma: A bacterial infection that thrives in warm, moist areas, such as between the toes. It can be mistaken for a fungal infection but requires antibiotic treatment.
- Pitted keratolysis: A bacterial infection causing small pits in the skin, often accompanied by a foul odor. While not typically dangerous, it can be uncomfortable and resistant to treatment.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Pemphigus: A group of rare skin disorders that cause blistering of the skin and mucous membranes.
- Keratoderma blennorrhagicum: A rare skin condition associated with reactive arthritis, characterized by thick, scaly skin lesions on the feet.
- Cutaneous larva migrans: A parasitic infection caused by the larvae of certain nematodes, resulting in a creeping eruption on the skin, which can occur between the toes if the individual has walked barefoot in contaminated areas.