Differential Diagnosis for Burning Sensation in Feet
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Vitamin B12 Deficiency: A common cause of burning sensation in the feet, especially in young adults. Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in the production of myelin, the fatty substance that surrounds and protects nerve fibers. A deficiency can lead to nerve damage, causing symptoms like burning sensations in the feet.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Peripheral Neuropathy: Damage to the peripheral nerves can cause burning sensations in the feet. This can be due to various factors such as alcohol abuse, vitamin deficiencies, or certain medications.
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it travels through the tarsal tunnel can cause burning sensations, numbness, and tingling in the feet.
- Hypothyroidism: Some people with hypothyroidism may experience burning sensations in their feet due to nerve damage or other mechanisms.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Multiple Sclerosis: Although less common, multiple sclerosis can cause burning sensations in the feet due to demyelination of nerve fibers in the central nervous system.
- Guillain-Barré Syndrome: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause rapid onset of muscle weakness and burning sensations in the feet.
- Heavy Metal Poisoning: Exposure to heavy metals like arsenic, lead, or mercury can cause peripheral neuropathy, leading to burning sensations in the feet.
Rare Diagnoses
- Fabry Disease: A rare genetic disorder that can cause burning sensations in the feet due to the accumulation of a particular type of fat in the body's cells.
- Erythromelalgia: A rare disorder characterized by burning pain, heat, and redness in the hands and feet.
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A rare condition characterized by chronic pain, inflammation, and sensitivity in one of the limbs, which can cause burning sensations in the feet.