Differential Diagnosis for White Patches Between Toes
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Tinea pedis (Athlete's foot): This is the most common fungal infection of the foot, often presenting with white patches or scaling between the toes due to moisture retention and fungal growth.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Contact dermatitis: An allergic or irritant reaction to substances like soap, detergent, or certain materials in shoes can cause white patches or skin changes between the toes.
- Eczema (Dyshidrotic eczema): Characterized by small, itchy blisters or dry, scaly skin, often on the palms or soles, and can appear as white patches between the toes.
- Hyperhidrosis: Excessive sweating can lead to maceration of the skin, which might appear as white, soft patches between the toes.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Squamous cell carcinoma: Although rare, skin cancers can present in unusual locations, including between the toes. Any non-healing lesion or unusual skin change warrants further investigation.
- Lymphoma (Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma): Rarely, lymphoma can present with skin manifestations, including patches or lesions in unusual areas like between the toes.
Rare Diagnoses
- Pityriasis versicolor: A fungal infection more commonly affecting the trunk, but can occasionally appear on the feet, causing discolored patches.
- Keratolysis exfoliativa: A condition characterized by the peeling of skin on the palms or soles, which could potentially appear as white patches between the toes.
- Leukoderma: Areas of skin turning white due to loss of pigment, which could be idiopathic or associated with other conditions, and might rarely present between the toes.