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Differential Diagnosis for Facial Flush and SLE

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) with Malar Rash: The combination of facial flush and SLE is highly suggestive of a malar rash, which is a characteristic "butterfly-shaped" rash across the cheeks and nose, often seen in patients with SLE. This rash can be triggered or worsened by sunlight, leading to facial flushing.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Rosacea: A chronic skin condition characterized by facial flushing, redness, and visible blood vessels. It can be exacerbated by various factors, including sun exposure, stress, and certain medications.
  • Polycythemia Vera: A type of blood cancer that can cause facial flushing due to increased red blood cell mass and viscosity, leading to increased blood flow to the skin.
  • Carcinoid Syndrome: A condition caused by a rare type of tumor that secretes serotonin, leading to flushing, diarrhea, wheezing, and heart valve abnormalities.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Pheochromocytoma: A rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can cause episodic hypertension, sweating, tachycardia, and flushing. Although rare, missing this diagnosis can be life-threatening due to the risk of hypertensive crises.
  • Thyroid Storm: A life-threatening complication of untreated or undertreated hyperthyroidism, characterized by severe tachycardia, hypertension, fever, and flushing.
  • Medication-Induced Flushing: Certain medications, such as niacin, calcium channel blockers, and ACE inhibitors, can cause facial flushing as a side effect.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Erythromelalgia: A rare disorder characterized by burning pain, heat, and redness in the hands and feet, which can also cause facial flushing.
  • Harlequin Syndrome: A rare condition that affects the nerves that control blood flow to the skin, leading to asymmetric facial flushing and sweating.
  • Autonomic Dysfunction: Certain conditions, such as multiple system atrophy or pure autonomic failure, can cause abnormal blood flow regulation, leading to facial flushing and other autonomic symptoms.

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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