Differential Diagnosis for Red Patch on Bottom of Left Nare
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Nasal Vestibulitis: This is a common condition that can cause a red patch on the nasal vestibule, often due to bacterial or fungal infections, or irritation from nose picking or other trauma. The location on the bottom of the nare is consistent with this diagnosis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Folliculitis: An inflammation of the hair follicles in the nasal area, which can cause redness, swelling, and sometimes pus-filled bumps. This could be due to bacterial infection, especially Staphylococcus aureus.
- Contact Dermatitis: An allergic or irritant reaction to substances like soaps, cosmetics, or metals (e.g., from piercings) that come into contact with the nasal area, leading to redness, itching, and possibly small blisters.
- Seborrheic Dermatitis: A chronic skin condition causing a red, itchy, and flaky rash, which can appear on the nose among other areas of the body.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma or Basal Cell Carcinoma: Although less common, skin cancers can present as a red patch on the nose. Given the potential severity, it's crucial not to miss these diagnoses, especially in individuals with risk factors like prolonged sun exposure or a history of skin cancer.
- Lupus Pernio (Cutaneous Sarcoidosis): A condition where granulomatous lesions appear on the skin, including the nose, due to sarcoidosis. It's essential to consider this in patients with systemic symptoms or a history suggestive of sarcoidosis.
- Rhinoscleroma: A chronic granulomatous infection caused by Klebsiella rhinoscleromatis, which can lead to nasal obstruction, crusting, and formation of masses, but might initially present with a red patch.
Rare Diagnoses
- Granuloma Faciale: A rare, chronic condition characterized by single or multiple, benign, reddish-brown plaques or nodules, typically on the face, including the nose. It's more common in middle-aged men.
- Midline Granuloma: Part of a group of diseases that can cause destructive lesions of the nose and face, often presenting with a red, ulcerative patch. This can be due to natural killer/T-cell lymphoma, Wegener's granulomatosis, or other conditions.