Differential Diagnosis for Redness and Pain between 1st and 2nd Toe
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Interdigital candidiasis or athlete's foot: This condition is common and often presents with redness, itching, and pain in the interdigital spaces, particularly between the 1st and 2nd toes due to moisture retention.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Ingrown toenail: This condition can cause redness, swelling, and pain, especially if the nail grows into the skin between the 1st and 2nd toes.
- Interdigital neuroma (Morton's neuroma): Although more common between the 3rd and 4th toes, it can occur between any toes, causing pain and sometimes redness due to nerve irritation.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of a bursa between the toes can cause pain, redness, and swelling.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Cellulitis: A bacterial infection of the skin that can spread rapidly and cause serious complications if not treated promptly. It presents with redness, swelling, warmth, and pain.
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Although less common in the foot, DVT can cause pain and swelling, and it's crucial to consider it due to its potential for severe complications like pulmonary embolism.
- Osteomyelitis: A bone infection that can cause pain, redness, and swelling, and is a serious condition requiring prompt treatment.
- Rare diagnoses
- Erythromelalgia: A rare disorder characterized by burning pain, heat, and redness in the hands and feet, which could potentially cause symptoms between the toes.
- Gout or pseudogout: Although these conditions more commonly affect the big toe, they can cause sudden, severe pain and redness in other toes as well.
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS): A rare condition characterized by intense burning or aching pain in the hands or feet after an injury or trauma, which could potentially involve the area between the toes.