Differential Diagnosis for a White Mole Under the Face that Hurts when Touched
- Single most likely diagnosis:
- Milia: A small, white bump that can appear on the face, often due to keratin buildup. It can be tender to the touch, especially if it becomes inflamed or infected.
- Other Likely diagnoses:
- Epidermoid cyst: A benign cyst that can appear as a small, white lump under the skin, which may become painful if inflamed or infected.
- Sebaceous hyperplasia: A benign condition characterized by small, white or yellowish bumps on the face, which can be tender if irritated.
- Keratosis pilaris: A condition that causes small, rough patches on the skin, which can sometimes appear white and be sensitive to touch.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.):
- Basal cell carcinoma: Although less common, a basal cell carcinoma can present as a pale or pearly nodule, and it's crucial to rule out this possibility due to its potential for local destruction if left untreated.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: This type of skin cancer can sometimes appear as a firm, white nodule, and early detection is vital for effective treatment.
- Rare diagnoses:
- Pilomatrixoma: A rare, benign tumor of the skin that can appear as a firm, white nodule, often on the face.
- Syringoma: A rare, benign tumor that can cause small, white or yellowish bumps on the face, which may be tender to the touch.
- Trichoepithelioma: A rare, benign tumor that can appear as a small, white nodule on the face, which may be sensitive to touch.