Differential Diagnosis for Skin Infection in an Infant
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Impetigo: A highly contagious bacterial skin infection, commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes, characterized by red sores on the face, especially around the mouth and nose, which can burst and form light brown crusts. It's prevalent in infants and young children.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): A chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. While not an infection per se, it can become infected, leading to symptoms that might be confused with a primary skin infection.
- Folliculitis: An inflammation of the hair follicles, usually caused by bacterial infection, which can appear as small, pus-filled bumps on the skin.
- Candidiasis (Yeast Infection): Caused by Candida fungi, this infection can cause a red, itchy rash, often in the diaper area or other warm, moist areas of the body.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Meningococcemia: A severe infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis, which can cause a rash that may resemble a skin infection but is actually a sign of a life-threatening condition. The rash can start as small, red pinpricks and quickly spread, becoming purple and turning into large bruises.
- Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome (SSSS): Caused by staphylococcal toxins, this condition leads to widespread blistering of the skin and can be life-threatening if not promptly treated.
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Infection: Can cause severe skin, eye, or mouth infections in infants, and if left untreated, can lead to serious complications.
Rare Diagnoses
- Congenital Syphilis: A condition that occurs when a baby is born with syphilis, a bacterial infection usually acquired from the mother during pregnancy. It can cause a variety of symptoms, including skin rashes.
- Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis (LCH): A rare disorder in which the body accumulates too many immature Langerhans cells, part of the immune system. Skin lesions are a common presentation, among other systemic symptoms.
- Zika Virus Infection: Though more commonly associated with neurological defects in infants, Zika virus infection can also cause skin rashes among other symptoms.