Differential Diagnosis for Nodules on Legs
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Erythema nodosum: This is a common condition characterized by the sudden onset of tender, erythematous nodules on the lower extremities, often associated with an underlying infection, inflammatory disease, or drug reaction.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Cellulitis: An infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, which can present with nodular lesions, especially if there is an abscess formation.
- Folliculitis: Inflammation of the hair follicles, which can cause nodular lesions on the legs, particularly in areas prone to shaving or friction.
- Keratosis pilaris: A benign condition characterized by small, rough, sandpaper-like nodules on the skin, often on the legs, due to excess keratin.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Although DVT typically presents with swelling, warmth, and discoloration of the leg, it can occasionally cause nodular lesions if there is associated thrombophlebitis or venous ulceration.
- Malignancy (e.g., lymphoma, metastatic disease): Rarely, nodules on the legs can be a manifestation of an underlying malignancy, making it crucial to investigate further if other symptoms or risk factors are present.
- Infectious diseases (e.g., tuberculosis, leprosy): Certain infectious diseases can cause nodular skin lesions on the legs, and missing these diagnoses could have significant consequences.
Rare Diagnoses
- Panniculitis: Inflammation of the subcutaneous fat, which can cause nodular lesions on the legs, often associated with systemic diseases or drug reactions.
- Necrobiosis lipoidica: A rare condition characterized by necrotic, granulomatous lesions in the skin, often on the lower legs, associated with diabetes mellitus.
- Sarcoidosis: A systemic granulomatous disease that can cause skin nodules, including on the legs, although this is less common.