Differential Diagnosis for Cold Sore in Nose
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infection: This is the most common cause of cold sores, which can appear in the nose. The virus is highly contagious and can be triggered by stress, illness, or exposure to sunlight.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Impetigo: A bacterial infection that can cause sores or blisters on the skin, including the nose. It's highly contagious and often seen in children.
- Nasal folliculitis: An inflammation of the hair follicles in the nose, which can cause redness, swelling, and pus-filled bumps.
- Allergic contact dermatitis: An allergic reaction to substances like nasal sprays, makeup, or jewelry, which can cause skin irritation and sores in the nose.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Nasal syphilis: A rare but serious condition caused by the syphilis bacterium, which can cause sores or ulcers in the nose.
- Nasal tuberculosis: A rare form of tuberculosis that can cause sores, ulcers, or lesions in the nose.
- Leishmaniasis: A parasitic infection that can cause skin sores or ulcers, including in the nose.
- Rare diagnoses
- Lupus pernio: A rare form of cutaneous sarcoidosis that can cause chronic inflammation and sores in the nose.
- Granuloma faciale: A rare skin condition that can cause red, brown, or purple lesions on the face, including the nose.
- Rhinoscleroma: A rare, chronic bacterial infection that can cause granulomatous lesions in the nose.