Differential Diagnosis for Ingrown Hair with Honey Crusting

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Folliculitis: This condition is characterized by inflammation of the hair follicles, often caused by bacterial or fungal infections. The presence of honey crusting, which is a yellowish, sticky crust, is a common feature of folliculitis, particularly when caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Ingrown hairs can also lead to folliculitis, making this diagnosis highly plausible.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Impetigo: A highly contagious skin infection that can cause honey-colored crusting, often accompanied by redness and swelling. It can occur in areas with ingrown hairs, making it a possible diagnosis.
  • Ingrown hair (pseudofolliculitis barbae): While ingrown hair itself doesn't typically cause honey crusting, the inflammation and potential for secondary infection could lead to such symptoms, especially if the ingrown hair becomes infected.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can spread rapidly and cause serious complications. Although less common, cellulitis could present with similar symptoms, including redness, swelling, and potentially a honey-like crust if secondarily infected.
  • Ecthyma: A variant of impetigo that extends into the dermis, causing deeper, ulcerative lesions that can crust over. It's less common but important not to miss due to its potential for scarring and more serious infection.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Kerion: A severe form of tinea capitis (fungal infection of the scalp) that can cause crusting and pus, though it's more commonly associated with the scalp rather than other areas where ingrown hairs are typical.
  • Blastomycosis: A fungal infection that can cause skin lesions, including those with crusting. However, it's relatively rare and usually associated with systemic symptoms or exposure to certain environments.