Differential Diagnosis for 5th Toe Pain
- The following categories outline potential causes of 5th toe pain, organized by likelihood and importance.
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Bunionette (Tailor's bunion): A bony growth on the outside of the 5th toe, causing pain and discomfort due to friction and pressure from shoes.
- Ingrown toenail: A common condition where the nail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, and swelling.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Hammer toe: A deformity of the toe where it becomes bent, causing pain and discomfort, especially in shoes that are too tight.
- Morton's neuroma: A condition where a nerve in the foot becomes compressed, leading to pain and numbness in the toes, including the 5th toe.
- Gout: A form of arthritis that can cause sudden, severe pain and swelling in the joints, including the joints of the 5th toe.
- Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear on the joints of the 5th toe, leading to pain and stiffness.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Infection (cellulitis or abscess): Bacterial infections that can cause severe pain, redness, and swelling, and can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.
- Fracture: A broken bone in the 5th toe, which can be caused by trauma or stress, and requires proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent further complications.
- Tumor: A rare but potentially serious condition, such as a benign or malignant tumor, that can cause pain and swelling in the 5th toe.
Rare Diagnoses
- Frey's syndrome: A rare condition that causes sweating and pain in the toes, including the 5th toe, often associated with eating or smelling food.
- Erythromacia: A rare condition that causes redness and pain in the toes, including the 5th toe, often associated with cold temperatures.
- Sickle cell disease: A genetic disorder that can cause pain and swelling in the toes, including the 5th toe, due to sickling of red blood cells.