Differential Diagnosis for HS in Groin of 30 yo Black Male
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS): This is the most likely diagnosis given the location (groin) and the patient's demographics (30-year-old black male). HS is a chronic skin condition characterized by recurrent, painful abscesses and nodules in apocrine-gland-bearing areas, such as the groin and axillae. It is more common in young adults and has a higher prevalence in African Americans.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Folliculitis: An inflammatory condition of the hair follicles, which can present with similar symptoms to HS, including painful papules and pustules in the groin area.
- Furuncles/Carbuncles: Boils or clusters of boils that can occur in the groin area, often caused by Staphylococcus aureus infection.
- Eczema (Dermatitis): A condition characterized by itchy, inflamed skin, which can sometimes present with similar symptoms to HS, especially in the groin area.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Necrotizing fasciitis: A life-threatening bacterial infection that can cause severe pain, swelling, and necrosis of the skin and underlying tissues. Although rare, it is essential to consider this diagnosis in cases of severe, rapidly progressing infections.
- Tuberculosis (TB): A bacterial infection that can cause skin lesions, including in the groin area. Although less common, TB can present with similar symptoms to HS, and it is crucial to consider this diagnosis, especially in high-risk populations.
- Rare diagnoses
- Keratosis pilaris: A condition characterized by rough, sandpapery skin, which can sometimes present with similar symptoms to HS, especially in the groin area.
- Fox-Fordyce disease: A rare condition characterized by itchy, dome-shaped papules in apocrine-gland-bearing areas, including the groin.
- Apocrine gland carcinoma: A rare type of cancer that can present with similar symptoms to HS, including painful masses in the groin area.