Differential Diagnosis for Severe Swelling of One Finger
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Trauma (injury or bruise): This is the most likely cause of severe swelling in one finger, as it is a common occurrence and can result from various types of injuries, such as a blow to the finger or a crush injury.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Infection (cellulitis or abscess): Bacterial infections can cause severe swelling, redness, and pain in the affected finger.
- Insect bite or sting: Certain insect bites or stings can cause an allergic reaction, leading to severe swelling in the affected area.
- Arthritis (rheumatoid or osteoarthritis): Although less common, arthritis can cause swelling in individual fingers, especially if there is a history of joint disease.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Compartment syndrome: A serious condition that occurs when pressure within the muscle compartments increases, potentially leading to nerve and muscle damage.
- Necrotizing fasciitis: A rare but life-threatening infection that can cause severe swelling, pain, and tissue damage.
- Sepsis: Although rare, sepsis can occur if an infection in the finger spreads to the bloodstream, leading to a potentially life-threatening condition.
- Rare diagnoses
- Gout: A type of arthritis that can cause sudden, severe swelling in individual joints, including the fingers.
- Pseudogout (calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease): A rare condition that can cause sudden, severe swelling in individual joints.
- Sarcoidosis: A rare autoimmune disorder that can cause swelling and inflammation in various parts of the body, including the fingers.