Differential Diagnosis for a 19-year-old Female with a Painful Cyst-like Lesion on the Chin
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Acne vulgaris (cystic acne): This is the most common skin condition in adolescents and young adults, often presenting with painful cysts or nodules on the face, including the chin. The age and location of the lesion, along with the description of it being painful and cyst-like, make this a highly probable diagnosis.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Epidermoid cyst: These are common, benign cysts that can appear on the face, including the chin. They can become inflamed and painful, especially if infected.
- Furuncle or carbuncle: These are infections of the hair follicle that can present as painful, cyst-like lesions. They are more likely to occur in areas with dense hair follicles, such as the chin.
- Keratosis pilaris: Although typically not painful, in some cases, keratosis pilaris can lead to the formation of small, cyst-like bumps, especially if there is an underlying condition like eczema.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Squamous cell carcinoma or basal cell carcinoma: Although rare in young individuals, skin cancers can present as non-healing sores or cyst-like lesions. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.
- Lupus miliaris disseminatus faciei (LMDF): A rare form of cutaneous tuberculosis that can present with reddish-brown, grouped papules on the face, which might resemble cysts.
- Rare diagnoses
- Pilar cyst: Also known as trichilemmal cysts, these are benign cysts that originate from the hair follicle and can appear on the face, including the chin. They are less common than epidermoid cysts.
- Steatocystoma: A rare skin condition characterized by multiple, benign cysts filled with sebum. These can appear anywhere on the body, including the face.
- Dermoid cyst: A congenital cyst that can appear on the face, including the chin. It is less likely to be painful unless infected.