Differential Diagnosis for Persistent Red Dot on the Cheek
The patient presents with a persistent red dot on her left cheek that has been present for months, accompanied by facial flushing or redness with stress or temperature changes. Here's a categorized differential diagnosis:
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Cherry Angioma: A benign vascular lesion that appears as a small, bright red dot on the skin. It's a common condition that can occur at any age and is often seen on the face. The patient's description of a persistent, non-itchy, and non-painful red dot is consistent with this diagnosis.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Telangiectasia: A small, dilated blood vessel near the surface of the skin that can appear as a red dot. It can be caused by various factors, including sun exposure, aging, and genetics.
- Hemangioma: A benign growth of blood vessels that can appear as a red dot or patch on the skin. While often present at birth, some hemangiomas can appear later in life.
- Keratosis Pilaris: A skin condition characterized by small, rough patches on the skin, which can sometimes appear as red dots. However, this condition is usually accompanied by itching and dryness.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Basal Cell Carcinoma: A type of skin cancer that can appear as a small, red dot or patch on the skin. While less likely, it's essential to consider this diagnosis due to its potential severity.
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Another type of skin cancer that can present as a red dot or patch, often with a history of sun exposure or immunosuppression.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Angiosarcoma: A rare and aggressive type of skin cancer that can appear as a red dot or patch. It's essential to consider this diagnosis, although it's much less likely.
- Mastocytosis: A condition characterized by an accumulation of mast cells in the skin, which can cause red dots or patches, often accompanied by itching and flushing.