Differential Diagnosis for Left Big Toe Burns and Pulsates at Night
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Gout: This condition is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in the joints, often occurring at night. The big toe is a common site for gout attacks, which can cause a burning sensation and pulsating pain.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Ingrown toenail: An ingrown toenail can cause pain, swelling, and redness in the toe, especially if it becomes infected. The pain can be worse at night and may feel like burning or pulsating.
- Morton's neuroma: This condition involves a thickening of the tissue around the nerves leading to the toes, causing pain, burning, and numbness in the foot, particularly between the toes.
- Poor circulation: Reduced blood flow to the feet can cause pain, burning, and pulsating sensations, especially at night when the feet are elevated.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Diabetic neuropathy: Uncontrolled diabetes can cause nerve damage, leading to burning, tingling, and pulsating pain in the feet, which can be severe and debilitating if left untreated.
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot in the deep veins of the leg can cause pain, swelling, and warmth in the affected area, which may be worse at night.
- Cellulitis: A bacterial infection of the skin and underlying tissues can cause redness, swelling, warmth, and pain, which can be severe and potentially life-threatening if not treated promptly.
- Rare diagnoses
- Erythromelalgia: A rare disorder characterized by burning pain, heat, and redness in the hands and feet, often occurring in response to heat or exercise.
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS): A chronic pain condition that can cause burning, tingling, and pulsating pain in the affected limb, often following an injury or trauma.
- Peripheral artery disease (PAD): A condition characterized by narrowed or blocked arteries in the legs, which can cause pain, cramping, and weakness in the legs, especially during exercise or at night.