Differential Diagnosis for Rash with Pus
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Impetigo: A highly contagious bacterial skin infection that typically presents with a rash and pus-filled blisters, often caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. It's common in children and can spread through direct contact or contaminated items.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Folliculitis: An inflammation of the hair follicles, usually caused by bacterial infection (most commonly Staphylococcus aureus), which can lead to pus-filled bumps on the skin.
- Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, swelling, and sometimes pus, especially if it becomes severe or if an abscess forms.
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) with Secondary Infection: Eczema can sometimes become infected, leading to the presence of pus due to bacterial superinfection, commonly with Staphylococcus aureus.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Necrotizing Fasciitis: A severe infection that destroys the tissue under the skin, including fat and the tissue covering the muscles (fascia). It requires immediate medical attention and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
- Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Infection: MRSA can cause skin infections that may appear as a rash with pus and can be more difficult to treat due to antibiotic resistance.
- Gas Gangrene (Clostridial Myonecrosis): A potentially deadly condition caused by Clostridium bacteria, which can produce gas in tissues and lead to severe infection, often following trauma.
Rare Diagnoses
- Erysipelas: A type of skin infection that involves the upper layer of the skin and can cause a rash with well-defined edges, sometimes accompanied by pus, typically caused by Streptococcus bacteria.
- Pemphigus Vulgaris: A chronic autoimmune skin disease that can cause blistering of the skin and mucous membranes, occasionally leading to secondary infections that might present with pus.
- Cutaneous Leishmaniasis: A parasitic infection caused by Leishmania parasites, transmitted by sandflies, which can cause skin lesions that may become infected and pus-filled.