Differential Diagnosis for a Swollen Finger and Throat Constriction
- Single most likely diagnosis:
- Cellulitis: This is a common bacterial skin infection that can cause swelling, redness, and pain. The sudden onset of a swollen finger, especially without a known bite or wound, could be due to a bacterial infection such as cellulitis, which might have spread from a minor, unnoticed injury.
- Other Likely diagnoses:
- Abscess: A localized collection of pus that can cause swelling and pain. An abscess on the finger could lead to the symptoms described.
- Paronychia: An infection of the skin around the nail, which can cause swelling, pain, and sometimes pus. This could be a possible diagnosis if the swelling is localized around the fingernail.
- Allergic Reaction: An allergic reaction to an unknown substance could cause swelling and potentially the sensation of the throat closing if the reaction is severe.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.):
- Necrotizing Fasciitis: A severe bacterial infection that destroys tissue under the skin, including fat and the tissue covering the muscles (fascia). It's a medical emergency and can be fatal if not treated promptly.
- Angioedema: A condition characterized by the rapid swelling of the dermis, subcutaneous tissue, mucosa, and submucosal tissues. It can cause the sensation of the throat closing and is a medical emergency, especially if it involves the airways.
- Sepsis: A life-threatening condition that arises when the body's response to infection causes injury to its own tissues and organs. Any infection, including those causing a swollen finger, can potentially lead to sepsis if not properly managed.
- Rare diagnoses:
- Herpetic Whitlow: A viral infection of the finger caused by the herpes simplex virus, leading to painful swelling and blisters.
- Erysipelas: A type of bacterial infection of the upper layer of the skin that can cause redness, swelling, and pain, typically affecting the face or legs but can occur on the fingers.
- Spider Bite (e.g., Brown Recluse): Certain spider bites can cause necrotic lesions and systemic symptoms, though this would be rare and typically associated with a known bite.