Differential Diagnosis for Hands Turning Black
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Raynaud's phenomenon: This condition is characterized by a sudden and temporary narrowing of the arteries, causing a reduction in blood flow to the fingers and toes, which can lead to discoloration, including turning black. It is often triggered by cold temperatures or stress.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Frostbite: Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can cause frostbite, leading to tissue damage and discoloration of the hands.
- Arterial occlusion: Blockage of an artery in the arm or hand can reduce blood flow, causing the hand to turn black.
- Scleroderma: A chronic autoimmune disease that can cause blood vessel damage, leading to reduced blood flow and discoloration of the skin.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Gangrene: A serious condition that occurs when tissue dies due to a lack of blood supply, which can be caused by various factors, including infection, trauma, or poor circulation.
- Septicemia: A life-threatening condition that occurs when bacteria enter the bloodstream, causing a severe infection that can lead to organ failure.
- Aortic dissection: A tear in the inner layer of the aorta, which can cause a blockage of blood flow to the arms and legs, leading to tissue damage and discoloration.
- Rare diagnoses
- Buerger's disease: A rare disease that causes inflammation and blockage of blood vessels, leading to reduced blood flow and tissue damage.
- Ergotism: A rare condition caused by consuming ergot-contaminated food, which can cause blood vessel constriction and tissue damage.
- Chilblains: A rare condition that occurs when small blood vessels in the hands and feet become damaged due to cold temperatures, leading to discoloration and tissue damage.