Differential Diagnosis for Axillary Lymphadenopathy and Erythema
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Cat Scratch Disease: This is a common condition caused by Bartonella henselae, transmitted through cat scratches or bites, leading to axillary lymphadenopathy and sometimes erythema at the site of the scratch.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Breast Cancer: Axillary lymphadenopathy can be a sign of breast cancer, especially if there's a palpable mass or other symptoms like nipple discharge. Erythema might be seen in inflammatory breast cancer.
- Infectious Causes (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes): Bacterial infections can cause lymphadenopathy and erythema, particularly if there's an abscess or cellulitis in the axillary region.
- Lymphoma: Although less common, lymphoma can present with lymphadenopathy, and erythema might be seen if there's skin involvement.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Breast Abscess: An abscess in the breast tissue can cause axillary lymphadenopathy and significant erythema. It's crucial to diagnose and treat promptly to avoid complications.
- Necrotizing Fasciitis: A severe infection that can cause erythema, swelling, and sometimes lymphadenopathy. It's a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.
- Inflammatory Breast Cancer: A rare and aggressive form of breast cancer that presents with rapid onset of erythema, edema, and warmth of the breast skin, often without a distinct lump.
Rare Diagnoses
- Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease: A rare, self-limiting condition that causes lymphadenopathy, often in the neck but can be axillary, and might be accompanied by systemic symptoms.
- Kimura Disease: A chronic inflammatory disorder that can cause lymphadenopathy and eosinophilia, more common in Asian males, and might present with erythema if there's skin involvement.
- Silicone Implant-Related Lymphadenopathy: In individuals with silicone breast implants, lymphadenopathy can occur due to a reaction to the silicone, potentially accompanied by erythema if there's an associated infection or inflammation.