Sudden swelling and redness of the toe

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Dermatology
• Surgical Case Reports

Background:

• Hair tourniquet syndrome is a rare condition causing distal extremity constriction.
• Infantile presentation often involves the digits, mimicking other pathologies.
• Delayed diagnosis can lead to significant morbidity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the typical presentation of hair tourniquet syndrome in infants.
• To emphasize the simplicity and efficacy of early treatment.
• To increase physician awareness of this treatable condition.

Main Methods:

• Case review of infants presenting with digital redness and swelling.
• Clinical examination to identify constricting hair fibers.
• Surgical incision and removal of the offending hair.

Main Results:

• Redness and swelling of the toe in an infant, without a history of trauma, is characteristic.
• Incision and removal of hair fibers provide a definitive cure.
• Prompt treatment successfully averted complications.

Conclusions:

• Hair tourniquet syndrome should be considered in infants with unexplained digital erythema and edema.
• Early recognition and intervention are crucial to prevent long-term sequelae.
• Physician education is vital for timely diagnosis and management.