Differential Diagnosis for Pediatric Scalp Tenderness, Lymphadenopathy, and Fever
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Tinea capitis: A common fungal infection of the scalp in children, often presenting with scalp tenderness, lymphadenopathy, and fever. The infection can cause hair loss, redness, and swelling of the scalp.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Impetigo: A bacterial skin infection that can cause scalp tenderness, lymphadenopathy, and fever. It often presents with yellowish crusts on the scalp.
- Folliculitis: An inflammation of the hair follicles, which can be caused by bacterial or fungal infections. It can present with scalp tenderness, lymphadenopathy, and fever.
- Pediatric scalp abscess: A collection of pus on the scalp, often caused by bacterial infections. It can present with scalp tenderness, lymphadenopathy, and fever.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Meningitis: An infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, which can present with fever, headache, and scalp tenderness. Although less common, it is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Osteomyelitis of the skull: An infection of the bone in the skull, which can present with scalp tenderness, lymphadenopathy, and fever. It is a serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
- Lymphoma: A type of cancer that can present with lymphadenopathy, fever, and scalp tenderness. Although rare in children, it is a life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Rare Diagnoses
- Kerion: A rare complication of tinea capitis, characterized by a severe inflammatory reaction to the fungal infection. It can present with scalp tenderness, lymphadenopathy, and fever.
- Scalp cellulitis: A bacterial infection of the skin and soft tissues of the scalp, which can present with scalp tenderness, lymphadenopathy, and fever.
- Histoplasmosis: A fungal infection that can cause scalp tenderness, lymphadenopathy, and fever. It is rare in children, but can be serious if left untreated.