Differential Diagnosis for "Pain at the End of the Toe"
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Trauma or injury to the toe: This is the most likely diagnosis given the location of the pain. The end of the toe is prone to injuries from stubbing, dropping objects on it, or other forms of direct trauma.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Ingrown toenail: This condition occurs when the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling, typically at the end of the toe.
- Paronychia: An infection of the skin around the nail, which can cause pain, redness, and swelling at the end of the toe.
- Morton's neuroma: Although more commonly associated with pain between the toes, a neuroma at the end of the toe could cause localized pain.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Osteomyelitis: A bone infection that could present with localized pain, redness, and swelling. Although less common, missing this diagnosis could lead to serious complications.
- Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that could start at the end of the toe and spread, requiring prompt antibiotic treatment.
- Diabetic neuropathy or ulcer: In diabetic patients, pain at the end of the toe could be a sign of neuropathy or an ulcer, both of which require immediate medical attention to prevent further complications.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Gout: Although gout typically affects the base of the big toe, it can occasionally affect other toes, including the end.
- Psoriatic arthritis: This condition can cause pain and swelling in the toes, including the ends, though it is less common.
- Tumor: A rare possibility could be a benign or malignant tumor at the end of the toe, which would require further investigation.