Differential Diagnosis for a Stubbed Toe
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Contusion or bruise of the toe: This is the most common and likely diagnosis for a stubbed toe, as it results from direct trauma to the toe, causing blood vessels to break and lead to bruising and pain.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Toe sprain: A stubbed toe can also cause a sprain, especially if the toe is twisted or bent during the injury, leading to ligament damage and pain.
- Fracture of the toe: A more severe stubbing injury can cause a fracture of the toe, especially if the force of the injury is significant or if the individual has a pre-existing condition that affects bone density.
- Subungual hematoma: If the stubbing injury causes bleeding under the toenail, it can lead to a subungual hematoma, which is a collection of blood under the nail.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Osteomyelitis: Although rare, a stubbed toe can increase the risk of osteomyelitis, a bone infection, especially if the skin is broken and bacteria enter the wound.
- Compartment syndrome: In severe cases, a stubbed toe can cause compartment syndrome, a condition where increased pressure within the muscles of the foot or toe can lead to nerve and muscle damage.
- Vascular injury: A stubbed toe can also cause damage to the blood vessels, leading to decreased blood flow to the toe, which can be a serious condition if not promptly addressed.
- Rare diagnoses
- Gout or pseudogout: In some cases, a stubbed toe can trigger an attack of gout or pseudogout, especially if the individual has a pre-existing condition.
- Neuroma: A stubbed toe can cause irritation or damage to the nerves in the foot, leading to the formation of a neuroma, a benign growth of nerve tissue.
- Arthritis: A stubbed toe can exacerbate pre-existing arthritis, especially if the individual has a condition such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.