Differential Diagnosis for Anal Yeast Infection

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Candidiasis: This is the most common cause of anal yeast infections, often presenting with itching, redness, and a white discharge. Candida albicans is the most common species responsible.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Contact Dermatitis: Irritation from soaps, wipes, or other products can cause symptoms similar to a yeast infection, including itching and redness.
• Hemorrhoids: Although not an infection, hemorrhoids can cause itching, discomfort, and sometimes discharge, mimicking symptoms of a yeast infection.
• Anal Psoriasis: A skin condition that can cause redness, itching, and scaling around the anus, potentially mistaken for a yeast infection.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): Although less common in the anal area without genital involvement, HSV can cause severe pain, itching, and vesicular lesions, which could be mistaken for a yeast infection.
• Syphilis: The primary stage of syphilis can present with a painless chancre in the anal area, which might be overlooked as a yeast infection.
• Anal Cancer: Though rare, anal cancer can present with itching, discharge, and pain, similar to a yeast infection, making it crucial not to miss this diagnosis.

Rare Diagnoses

• Lichen Sclerosus: A rare skin condition that can cause itching and white patches around the anus, potentially mistaken for a yeast infection.
• Lichen Planus: Another rare condition that can affect the skin and mucous membranes, causing lesions and itching that might be confused with a yeast infection.
• Keratosis Pilaris: A condition characterized by rough patches on the skin, which can occasionally occur around the anus and might be mistaken for a yeast infection due to associated itching and redness.