Differential Diagnosis for Macula Red Non-Blanching Rash
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Petechiae: This is the most likely diagnosis due to the description of a macula red non-blanching rash, which is characteristic of petechiae. Petechiae are small, pinpoint spots that occur due to minor hemorrhages from broken capillary blood vessels.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Purpura: This condition is similar to petechiae but involves larger areas of bleeding under the skin, which could also present as a macula red non-blanching rash.
- Ecchymosis: Although typically larger than petechiae, ecchymosis (bruises) can initially present as a non-blanching red rash before turning purple.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Meningococcal sepsis: This is a life-threatening condition that can cause a non-blanching rash, often described as petechial or purpuric. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis, especially in patients with fever, shock, or other signs of severe illness.
- Rocky Mountain spotted fever: Another severe infection that can present with a non-blanching rash, along with fever and other systemic symptoms.
- Rare diagnoses
- Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP): A form of vasculitis that can cause a non-blanching rash, typically accompanied by joint pain, abdominal pain, and kidney involvement.
- Thrombocytopenia: Certain conditions leading to low platelet counts can result in petechiae or purpura, presenting as a non-blanching rash.
- Vasculitis: Other forms of vasculitis, such as microscopic polyangiitis or granulomatosis with polyangiitis, can also cause non-blanching rashes, although they are less common.