Differential Diagnosis for a Shiny Round Papule Less Than 1 cm on the Neck

• Single Most Likely Diagnosis
  • Seborrheic Keratosis: A common, benign skin growth that can appear as a shiny, round papule, often on the face, neck, or trunk. Its appearance and location make it a likely candidate for this presentation.
• Other Likely Diagnoses
  • Milia: Small, white or shiny bumps that can appear on the skin, often due to keratin buildup. They are common on the face but can also occur on the neck.
  • Dermatofibroma: A benign skin growth that can appear as a firm, round papule, sometimes shiny, and is often found on the legs but can occur on the neck.
  • Wart (Verruca): Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), warts can appear anywhere on the body, including the neck, and may present as shiny, round papules.
• Do Not Miss Diagnoses
  • Basal Cell Carcinoma: Although less common, this type of skin cancer can present as a shiny, round papule. Early detection is crucial, making it a "do not miss" diagnosis.
  • Melanoma: The most dangerous form of skin cancer, which can appear as a new, changing, or unusual growth. While less likely, its potential severity warrants consideration.
• Rare Diagnoses
  • Trichoepithelioma: A rare, benign tumor of the hair follicle that can appear as a shiny, round papule, often on the face but potentially on the neck.
  • Syringoma: Benign tumors of the sweat glands that can appear as small, shiny papules, typically around the eyes but can occur on the neck in rare cases.
  • Neurofibroma: A benign growth of nerve tissue that can appear as a shiny, round papule, especially in individuals with neurofibromatosis type 1.