Differential Diagnosis for Red Toes on One Foot
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Erythema (inflammation) due to poor circulation or cold exposure: This is a common and straightforward explanation for red toes on one foot, as it can be caused by a variety of factors such as cold temperatures, tight clothing, or poor blood flow.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, swelling, and warmth, often affecting one limb.
- Gout: A form of arthritis that can cause sudden, severe pain and redness in the toes, although it typically affects the big toe first.
- Eczema or contact dermatitis: Skin conditions that can cause redness, itching, and inflammation, potentially affecting all toes on one foot if exposed to an irritant.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): A blood clot in the deep veins of the leg, which can cause redness, swelling, and warmth, and is a medical emergency if not treated promptly.
- Septic arthritis: A bacterial infection of the joint, which can cause severe pain, redness, and swelling, and requires urgent medical attention.
- Osteomyelitis: A bone infection that can cause redness, swelling, and pain, and may not be immediately apparent but is crucial to diagnose and treat.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Erythromelalgia: A rare disorder that causes burning pain, redness, and heat in the hands and feet, often in response to heat or exercise.
- Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS): A chronic pain condition that can cause redness, swelling, and changes in skin temperature, although it is more commonly associated with trauma or injury.
- Lymphoma or other malignancies: Although extremely rare, certain types of cancer can cause redness and swelling in the toes or feet, and should be considered in the differential diagnosis if other explanations are ruled out.