Differential Diagnosis for a 37-year-old Female with a Changing Mole on her Upper Back
- Single most likely diagnosis:
- Sunburn-related irritation or inflammation of a pre-existing mole: This is the most likely diagnosis given the recent sunburn and the application of aloe cream with no improvement. The sunburn could have caused irritation or inflammation of the mole, leading to the perceived change in appearance.
- Other Likely diagnoses:
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: This condition can occur after a sunburn, especially in individuals with darker skin types, and may cause a change in the appearance of a mole.
- Irritant contact dermatitis: The aloe cream or other topical agents used to treat the sunburn could be causing an irritant contact dermatitis, which may affect the appearance of the mole.
- Melanocytic nevus with sun-induced changes: Sun exposure can cause changes in the appearance of melanocytic nevi, including darkening or enlargement.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses:
- Melanoma: Although less likely, it is crucial to consider melanoma in the differential diagnosis, as it can be life-threatening if missed. A changing mole, especially one with irregular borders, color, or diameter, should raise suspicion for melanoma.
- Skin infection (e.g., cellulitis, abscess): A skin infection could cause redness, swelling, and discomfort in the area of the mole, which may be mistaken for a change in the mole itself.
- Rare diagnoses:
- Dermatofibroma: A dermatofibroma is a rare, benign skin growth that can appear as a changing mole.
- Blue nevus: A blue nevus is a rare, benign melanocytic lesion that can appear as a changing mole, especially after sun exposure.