What is the cause of recurrent nasal ulcers in a 24-year-old female (twenty-four years old), not preceded by symptoms of an upper respiratory infection (cold)?

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Differential Diagnosis for Periodic Random Sores in the Nose

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Nasal vestibulitis: This condition is characterized by inflammation of the nasal vestibule, which can cause sores or ulcers in the nose. It is often related to nasal picking, dry air, or irritation from makeup or other products.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Aphthous ulcers: Although more common in the mouth, aphthous ulcers can also occur in the nose, causing periodic sores.
    • Allergic rhinitis: Allergies can cause nasal irritation, leading to sores or ulcers in the nose.
    • Dry air or environmental irritants: Prolonged exposure to dry air or environmental irritants like pollution or strong chemicals can cause nasal sores.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
    • Nasal tuberculosis: A rare but serious condition that can cause ulcers or sores in the nose, often accompanied by other symptoms like fever, weight loss, and night sweats.
    • Sarcoidosis: An autoimmune disease that can cause granulomas in the nose, leading to sores or ulcers.
    • Nasal lymphoma: A rare type of cancer that can cause sores or ulcers in the nose, often accompanied by other symptoms like nasal obstruction, bleeding, or facial pain.
    • Wegener's granulomatosis: A rare autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation and sores in the nose, often accompanied by other symptoms like sinusitis, cough, and kidney problems.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Leprosy: A rare infectious disease that can cause skin and mucous membrane lesions, including sores in the nose.
    • Syphilis: A rare sexually transmitted disease that can cause sores or ulcers in the nose, often accompanied by other symptoms like fever, rash, and lymphadenopathy.
    • Relapsing polychondritis: A rare autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation and sores in the nose, often accompanied by other symptoms like ear, eye, and joint problems.

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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