Differential Diagnosis for Burning Sensation after Exposure to Mild Cold

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Raynaud's Phenomenon: This condition is characterized by a sudden and temporary narrowing of the blood vessels in response to cold temperatures or stress, leading to a burning sensation, numbness, and discoloration of the affected areas, typically the fingers and toes.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Cold Urticaria: An allergic reaction to cold temperatures that can cause hives, itching, and a burning sensation on the skin after exposure to cold.
  • Chilblains: A condition that occurs when small blood vessels in the hands and feet become damaged due to cold temperatures, leading to redness, itching, and a burning sensation.
  • Peripheral Neuropathy: Damage to the peripheral nerves can cause a burning sensation in response to cold temperatures, among other symptoms.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Hypothyroidism: Although less common, hypothyroidism can cause an increased sensitivity to cold, which might be perceived as a burning sensation. Missing this diagnosis could lead to untreated hypothyroidism, which has significant health implications.
  • Vitamin B12 Deficiency: A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to neurological symptoms, including abnormal sensations such as burning in response to cold. This condition, if left untreated, can lead to permanent neurological damage.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Erythromelalgia: A rare disorder characterized by burning pain, heat, and redness in the hands and feet, which can be triggered by cold temperatures among other factors.
  • Cold Agglutinin Disease: A rare autoimmune disorder where the body produces antibodies that attack red blood cells at cold temperatures, potentially leading to a burning sensation among other symptoms.