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Differential Diagnosis for Pruritic Sudden Onset Facial Lesion

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Urticaria: This is a common condition characterized by itchy, raised hives that can appear anywhere on the body, including the face. The sudden onset and pruritic nature of the lesion make urticaria a likely diagnosis.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Contact Dermatitis: This is a type of skin inflammation caused by contact with irritants or allergens, which can lead to pruritic lesions on the face. The sudden onset could be related to new exposure to a substance.
  • Insect Bite Reaction: Reactions to insect bites can cause pruritic lesions and can occur suddenly, especially if the individual has been outdoors or in an area where insects are prevalent.
  • Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): While eczema can have a more gradual onset, flare-ups can occur suddenly, leading to pruritic lesions on the face, especially in individuals with a history of atopic diseases.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Angioedema: A condition characterized by rapid swelling of the dermis, subcutaneous tissue, mucosa, and submucosal tissues. It can be life-threatening if it involves the airway, making it crucial not to miss, despite its lower likelihood compared to other diagnoses.
  • Cellulitis: An acute bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, which can present with sudden onset of redness, swelling, and warmth, and may be pruritic in some cases. It requires prompt antibiotic treatment.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Pemphigus Vulgaris: A rare autoimmune disease causing blistering of the skin and mucous membranes. While it's less common, it can present with sudden onset of lesions and is important to consider due to its potential severity and need for specific treatment.
  • Bullous Pemphigoid: Another autoimmune blistering disease that can present with pruritic lesions, although it typically affects older adults and may have a more gradual onset than what is described.

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This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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