Causes: Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell disease is a primary factor contributing to the development of dactylitis. Normally, red blood cells possess a flexible disc-like shape. However, sickle cell disease alters the structure of the hemoglobin protein, resulting in the formation of inflexible and sickle-shaped blood cells. These rigid cells have the potential to obstruct blood vessels, causing a decrease or complete blockage in blood flow. It is important to note that dactylitis often manifests as the initial symptom of sickle cell disease in infants and young children.
Causes: Syphilis
One of the leading causes of dactylitis is syphilis, especially in cases of congenital syphilis. When a pregnant person has syphilis, it can be transmitted to the fetus and result in the development of congenital syphilis. Infants born with this condition may experience dactylitis, which is the inflammation of the fingers and toes. Unlike other forms of dactylitis that typically affect only one side of the body, syphilitic dactylitis usually affects both sides.