Pityriasis Rosea Differential Diagnosis
The differential diagnosis for pityriasis rosea includes various skin conditions that may present with similar symptoms. Here are the possible diagnoses, categorized for clarity:
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Pityriasis rosea: This is the most likely diagnosis, given the characteristic presentation of a herald patch followed by a secondary eruption of oval-shaped, scaly patches on the trunk and limbs.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Tinea corporis: A fungal infection of the skin that can cause similar patches, but typically has a more pronounced border and may respond to antifungal treatment.
- Nummular dermatitis: A type of eczema that can cause coin-shaped patches, often on the arms and legs, which may be mistaken for pityriasis rosea.
- Seborrheic dermatitis: A condition that causes scaly patches on the skin, often on the scalp, face, and torso, which may be confused with pityriasis rosea.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Syphilis: Secondary syphilis can cause a rash that may resemble pityriasis rosea, and it is essential to rule out this diagnosis due to the potential for serious complications if left untreated.
- Lymphoma: Certain types of lymphoma, such as mycosis fungoides, can cause skin lesions that may be mistaken for pityriasis rosea, and early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
- Rare diagnoses
- Pityriasis lichenoides: A rare condition that causes small, scaly patches on the skin, which may be mistaken for pityriasis rosea.
- Guttate psoriasis: A type of psoriasis that causes small, scaly patches on the skin, often on the trunk and limbs, which may be confused with pityriasis rosea.
- Drug eruptions: Certain medications can cause skin reactions that may resemble pityriasis rosea, and it is essential to consider this possibility in patients with a history of recent medication use.