The Crying Infant’s Red Toe

A 6-month-old presents with a red, swollen toe. Explore the Differential Diagnosis for this common pediatric emergency, from infection to a surprising cause.

Hair tourniquet


A 6-month-old girl was brought to the emergency department with a 3-day history of redness and swelling of a toe. A physical examination is shown. Which of the following is the most likely underlying cause of the findings?

What is the most likely diagnosis?

Allergic reaction
Cellulitis
Hair tourniquet
Non-accidental trauma
Insect bite

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