Differential Diagnosis for Scabbing Dime Sized Excoriation Lesions
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Impetigo: A common and highly contagious skin infection that often presents with scabbing, dime-sized lesions, typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. The appearance and contagious nature make it a prime candidate for this presentation.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Characterized by itchy, inflamed skin, which can lead to excoriations and scabbing due to scratching. The lesions can vary in size, including dime-sized areas.
- Insect Bites: Repeated scratching of insect bites can lead to excoriation and scabbing. The size of the lesions can match the description, depending on the insect and individual reaction.
- Contact Dermatitis: An allergic or irritant reaction to substances coming into contact with the skin, leading to inflammation, which can result in scabbing lesions if scratched.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Malignancy (e.g., Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma): Although less common, skin cancers can initially present as non-healing lesions or sores. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis, especially in sun-exposed areas or in individuals with risk factors.
- Infections like MRSA: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus can cause skin lesions that resemble impetigo but require different treatment due to antibiotic resistance.
- Lyme Disease: The initial stage of Lyme disease can present with a single lesion known as erythema migrans, which can sometimes be mistaken for other skin conditions. Although not typically dime-sized and scabbing, it's a critical diagnosis not to miss due to its implications.
Rare Diagnoses
- Pyoderma Gangrenosum: A rare skin condition that leads to painful ulcers, which can start as pustules or insect bite-like lesions and progress. It's more common in individuals with underlying systemic diseases.
- Cutaneous Leishmaniasis: Caused by a parasite transmitted by sandflies, leading to skin lesions that can ulcerate and scab. This diagnosis is more relevant in travelers to endemic areas.
- Dermatitis Herpetiformis: An autoimmune blistering disorder associated with celiac disease, characterized by intensely itchy, blistering skin. The blisters can evolve into scabbing lesions.