What is the cause of facial erythema (redness) and desquamation (flaking)?

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Last updated: February 23, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Redness and Flaking of Face

  • Single Most Likely Diagnosis
    • Seborrheic dermatitis: This condition is characterized by a red, itchy, and flaky rash, typically on the face, especially on the nose, eyebrows, and scalp. It's a common condition that can be triggered by stress, cold weather, or certain products.
  • Other Likely Diagnoses
    • Atopic dermatitis (eczema): This is a chronic skin condition that can cause redness, itching, and flaking, often on the face, especially in children.
    • Rosacea: A skin condition that causes redness, acne-like symptoms, and visible blood vessels on the face, often accompanied by flaking skin.
    • Contact dermatitis: An allergic reaction or irritation caused by certain products or substances, leading to redness, itching, and flaking on the face.
    • Psoriasis: An autoimmune condition that can cause red, scaly patches on the face, although it's more common on other areas of the body.
  • Do Not Miss Diagnoses
    • Lupus: A chronic autoimmune disease that can cause a butterfly-shaped rash on the face, which may be red and flaky, and is often accompanied by other systemic symptoms.
    • Sarcoidosis: A condition that can cause skin lesions, including red and flaky patches on the face, as well as systemic symptoms like fever and fatigue.
    • Erythema multiforme: A skin condition that can cause target-shaped lesions on the face, which may be red and flaky, and can be a sign of an underlying infection or autoimmune disorder.
  • Rare Diagnoses
    • Pemphigus: A group of rare autoimmune diseases that cause blistering of the skin and mucous membranes, which can lead to redness and flaking on the face.
    • Dermatomyositis: A rare inflammatory disease that can cause skin rash, muscle weakness, and other systemic symptoms, including redness and flaking on the face.
    • Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma: A rare type of cancer that can cause skin lesions, including red and flaky patches on the face, as well as systemic symptoms like fever and fatigue.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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