Differential Diagnosis for Big Toe Fracture
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Traumatic fracture of the distal phalanx: This is the most common type of big toe fracture, often resulting from a direct blow to the toe, such as dropping something on it or stubbing it.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Sesamoid fracture: The sesamoid bones are two small bones embedded within the tendons under the big toe. Fractures here can occur due to repetitive stress or acute trauma.
- Turf toe: An injury to the ligaments around the big toe joint, typically occurring when the toe is forcibly bent upward, common in athletes.
- Stress fracture of the proximal phalanx or metatarsal: Overuse injuries that can occur in runners or dancers due to repetitive stress on the bones of the foot.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Compartment syndrome: A condition where increased pressure within a muscle compartment can lead to muscle and nerve damage. Though less common, it's a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment.
- Open fracture: A fracture where the bone pierces the skin, leading to a high risk of infection. Immediate recognition and treatment are crucial.
- Neurovascular injury: Damage to the nerves or blood vessels surrounding the fracture, which could lead to serious complications if not addressed promptly.
Rare Diagnoses
- Avascular necrosis of the sesamoid bones: A condition where the blood supply to the sesamoid bones is disrupted, leading to bone death. This is rare but can occur after a fracture.
- Infection (osteomyelitis or septic arthritis): Though more common in open fractures or in people with certain health conditions, infection is a rare but serious complication of a closed big toe fracture.
- Pathological fracture: A fracture that occurs in a bone that has been weakened by an underlying disease, such as osteoporosis, cancer, or a bone cyst.