Differential Diagnosis for a Pimple on the Lips
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Cold sore (Herpes Simplex Virus): This is the most common cause of a pimple-like lesion on the lips, characterized by a painful, fluid-filled blister that crusts over time.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Milia: Small, white bumps on the lips that occur when dead skin cells or keratin get trapped under the skin's surface.
- Fordyce spots: Small, yellowish or white bumps on the lips that are caused by the abnormal presence of sebaceous glands in the mucous membrane.
- Acne: Although less common on the lips, acne can occur in this area, especially in individuals with a history of acne.
- Folliculitis: An inflammation of the hair follicles, which can cause pimple-like lesions on the lips, especially in areas with coarse hair.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Squamous cell carcinoma: A type of skin cancer that can present as a pimple or ulcer on the lip, especially in older adults or those with a history of sun exposure.
- Basal cell carcinoma: Another type of skin cancer that can appear as a pimple or sore on the lip.
- Lip abscess: A painful, pus-filled lesion that can occur on the lip, often requiring drainage.
Rare Diagnoses
- Keratoacanthoma: A rare, benign tumor that can appear as a pimple or nodule on the lip.
- Mucous cyst: A rare, benign lesion that can occur on the lip, often caused by the obstruction of a salivary gland duct.
- Lipoma: A rare, benign tumor composed of fat tissue that can occur on the lip, although this is more common in other areas of the body.