Differential Diagnosis for Fungal Infection Causing Ulcer on Skin

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Dermatophytosis (Ringworm): This is a common fungal infection that can cause skin ulcers, especially in immunocompromised individuals. It's characterized by circular lesions with clear centers and is often accompanied by itching and redness.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Cutaneous Candidiasis: Candida infections can cause skin ulcers, particularly in warm, moist areas of the body. They are more common in individuals with diabetes, immunosuppression, or those using antibiotics.
  • Cutaneous Aspergillosis: Aspergillosis can cause skin ulcers, especially in immunocompromised patients. It may appear as a black eschar or a red, swollen lesion.
  • Sporotrichosis: This fungal infection, caused by Sporothrix schenckii, typically enters the body through cuts or scrapes in the skin and can cause ulcers, usually on the arms or hands.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Mucormycosis: Although rare, mucormycosis is a deadly fungal infection that can cause skin ulcers, particularly in immunocompromised individuals or those with uncontrolled diabetes. It requires prompt treatment to prevent severe outcomes.
  • Histoplasmosis: This fungal infection can cause skin ulcers, especially in immunocompromised patients. It's essential to consider histoplasmosis in patients with exposure to bird or bat droppings.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Chromoblastomycosis: A rare fungal infection that can cause skin ulcers, typically found in tropical and subtropical regions. It's characterized by long-standing, slowly progressive lesions.
  • Phaeohyphomycosis: A rare fungal infection caused by dematiaceous fungi, which can lead to skin ulcers. It's more common in immunocompromised individuals and can be challenging to treat.