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Sickle cell dactylitis — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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EasyPediatrics (well-child, chronic management)Sickle cell dactylitisUSMLE Step 3

A 2-year-old boy with sickle cell disease has painful swelling of both hands and feet. He is afebrile and otherwise well. Hemoglobin is near baseline. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: B — Dactylitis from vaso-occlusion

Hand-foot syndrome in young children with sickle cell disease is vaso-occlusive dactylitis.

Reference: NHLBI sickle cell disease guidance; USMLE Step 3 sample question style