What is the cause of bilateral white bumps on the cheeks?

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Differential Diagnosis for White Bumps on Bilateral Cheeks

  • Single Most Likely Diagnosis
    • Milia: These are small, white bumps that appear on the skin, often on the cheeks, due to keratin accumulation. They are common and usually harmless.
  • Other Likely Diagnoses
    • Fordyce spots: These are small, white or yellowish bumps on the cheeks, lips, and genital area, caused by the abnormal presence of sebaceous glands in the mucous membrane.
    • Keratosis pilaris: A condition characterized by the appearance of small, white or light-colored bumps on the skin, often on the cheeks, due to the buildup of keratin.
    • Acne: Specifically, closed comedones (whiteheads) can appear as white bumps on the cheeks.
  • Do Not Miss Diagnoses
    • Sarcoidosis: A systemic disease that can cause skin lesions, including bumps on the cheeks, and can be life-threatening if not treated properly.
    • Lupus miliaris disseminatus faciei (LMDF): A rare form of cutaneous lupus that presents with small, reddish-brown or white bumps on the face, including the cheeks.
  • Rare Diagnoses
    • Lichen nitidus: A rare skin condition characterized by tiny, shiny, flat-topped bumps on the skin, which can appear white.
    • Trichoepithelioma: A rare skin condition that causes small, white or skin-colored bumps on the face, including the cheeks, due to the abnormal growth of hair follicles.
    • Multiple syringomas: A rare condition where small, white or yellowish bumps appear on the skin, often on the cheeks and lower eyelids, due to the abnormal growth of sweat glands.

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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