Differential Diagnosis for Web Space Finger Injury
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Laceration or cut: This is the most likely diagnosis due to the common occurrence of cuts or lacerations in the web space of the fingers, often caused by sharp objects or accidents.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Contusion or bruise: A blunt trauma to the web space can cause a contusion or bruise, which is a common injury in this area.
- Abrasion: An abrasion can occur in the web space due to friction or rubbing against a rough surface.
- Infection (e.g., paronychia or felon): Infections can occur in the web space, especially if there is a break in the skin, and can be caused by bacteria or other microorganisms.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Tendon injury (e.g., flexor or extensor tendon laceration): A tendon injury in the web space can have serious consequences if not properly diagnosed and treated, leading to permanent disability or loss of finger function.
- Nerve injury (e.g., digital nerve laceration): A nerve injury in the web space can cause numbness, tingling, or permanent sensory loss if not promptly addressed.
- Vascular injury (e.g., digital artery laceration): A vascular injury in the web space can lead to bleeding, ischemia, or gangrene if not quickly diagnosed and treated.
- Rare diagnoses
- Web space abscess: A rare but potentially serious infection that can occur in the web space, often requiring surgical drainage.
- Dupuytren's contracture: A rare condition that can cause thickening and contraction of the tissue in the web space, leading to limited finger mobility.
- Web space ganglion cyst: A rare benign cyst that can occur in the web space, often causing discomfort or limited mobility.