What is the diagnosis of a red rash in the axilla (armpit) of an obese female?

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Differential Diagnosis for Red Rash on Armpit of Obese Women

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Intertrigo: This is the most likely diagnosis due to the warm, moist environment of the armpit, especially in obese women, which creates an ideal setting for fungal and bacterial growth, leading to intertrigo.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Contact dermatitis: This could be due to irritation from deodorants, antiperspirants, or other personal care products.
    • Eczema (atopic dermatitis): Obese individuals may be more prone to eczema due to skin folds and moisture.
    • Folliculitis: Inflammation of the hair follicles, often caused by bacterial or fungal infections, which can thrive in warm, moist areas.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
    • Cellulitis: A bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissues that can spread rapidly and become severe if not treated promptly.
    • Erythrasma: A bacterial infection that can resemble intertrigo but may require different treatment.
    • Inverse psoriasis: Although less common, it can present in skin folds and may be mistaken for other conditions.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Candidiasis: While more common in other areas like the mouth or vagina, candida infections can occur in the armpits, especially in immunocompromised individuals.
    • Tinea corporis (ringworm): A fungal infection that can occur anywhere on the body, including the armpits, though it's less common in this area.
    • Hiddenitis suppurativa: A chronic skin condition characterized by recurrent, painful abscesses and nodules, often in the armpits, groin, and under the breasts, which can be mistaken for other conditions due to its rarity and variability in presentation.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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