Differential Diagnosis for Right Toe Pain

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Gout: This is a common condition characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in one or more joints, most often in the big toe. The pain can be so severe that even the weight of a bed sheet can be unbearable. Given its prevalence and the specific location of pain in the toe, gout is a leading consideration.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Ingrown Toenail: This condition occurs when the corner or edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. It's a common issue, especially in individuals who wear tight shoes or have poor foot hygiene.
  • Morton's Neuroma: A condition that involves a thickening of the tissue around one of the nerves leading to the toes, causing sharp, burning pain in the ball of the foot or toe.
  • Bunion: A bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe, causing pain and discomfort, especially when wearing shoes.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Osteomyelitis: An infection of the bone that can cause pain, swelling, and redness. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, including the spread of infection to other parts of the body.
  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot that forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. While less common as a cause of toe pain, DVT can be life-threatening if the clot breaks loose and travels to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism.
  • Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, swelling, and pain. If not treated promptly, it can spread and lead to more serious infections.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): A condition characterized by persistent burning pain and inflammation after an injury, which can affect one of the limbs after an injury or trauma.
  • Erythromelalgia: A rare disorder characterized by burning pain, heat, and redness in the hands and feet, which can be extremely painful and is often accompanied by an increased temperature of the affected areas.
  • Toe Fracture: While not rare in general, a fracture might be overlooked if the pain is mild or if there's no clear history of trauma. However, it's essential to consider, especially if there's a history of injury.