Differential Diagnosis for Felon of Finger
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Paronychia or Felon: This is the most likely diagnosis, as a felon is a type of abscess that occurs on the palmar surface of the fingertip, typically caused by bacterial infection. The symptoms of a felon, such as severe pain, swelling, and redness, match the presentation of the condition.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Herpetic Whitlow: A viral infection caused by herpes simplex virus, which can cause similar symptoms to a felon, including pain, swelling, and vesicles on the fingertip.
- Cellulitis: A bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, which can cause redness, swelling, and warmth of the affected area.
- Fungal Infection: Fungal infections, such as onychomycosis or candidiasis, can cause similar symptoms to a felon, including pain, swelling, and redness.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Osteomyelitis: A bone infection that can occur if the felon or other infection spreads to the bone, which can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
- Septic Arthritis: A joint infection that can occur if the felon or other infection spreads to the joint, which can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
- Gangrene: A condition that occurs when the tissue dies due to lack of blood supply, which can be a complication of untreated felon or other infections.
Rare Diagnoses
- Tuberculous Tenosynovitis: A rare infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which can cause swelling, pain, and stiffness of the finger.
- Sporotrichosis: A rare fungal infection caused by Sporothrix schenckii, which can cause skin lesions, swelling, and pain on the finger.
- Nocardial Infection: A rare bacterial infection caused by Nocardia species, which can cause abscesses, swelling, and pain on the finger.