Differential Diagnosis for Nailed Pulling Up
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Onychocryptosis (Ingrown Toenail): This condition is characterized by the nail growing into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. Pulling up on the nail can be a symptom or an attempt to relieve discomfort.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Onychauxis (Thickened Toenail): Thickening of the toenail can cause discomfort and may lead to the sensation of the nail pulling up due to pressure on the nail bed.
- Paronychia: An infection around the nail can cause pain and swelling, potentially leading to the sensation of the nail pulling up.
- Onycholysis (Nail Lifting): This condition involves the separation of the nail from the nail bed, which can feel like the nail is pulling up.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Osteomyelitis: Although rare, an infection of the bone beneath the nail can present with similar symptoms and requires prompt treatment to avoid serious complications.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A type of skin cancer that can occur under the nail, presenting with pain, swelling, or changes in nail appearance, including the sensation of the nail pulling up.
- Rare diagnoses
- Subungual Melanoma: A rare and aggressive form of skin cancer that occurs under the nail, which can cause changes in nail appearance or sensation, including pulling up.
- Nail Psoriasis: An autoimmune condition that can affect the nails, leading to thickening, lifting, or other changes that might feel like the nail pulling up.