Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: July 31, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Hot Tub Folliculitis vs Atopic Dermatitis

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Hot tub folliculitis: This is the most likely diagnosis if the patient has recently used a hot tub, especially if the water was not properly chlorinated. The condition is caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria, which thrive in warm, moist environments.
  • Atopic dermatitis: If the patient has a history of atopic diseases (such as asthma or allergies) and presents with chronic, itchy skin lesions, atopic dermatitis is a strong consideration.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Contact dermatitis: This could be a consideration if the patient has come into contact with an irritant or allergen, such as soap, shampoo, or other chemicals.
  • Irritant dermatitis: Similar to contact dermatitis, but caused by exposure to substances that directly damage the skin, such as harsh soaps or excessive heat.
  • Seborrheic dermatitis: If the patient presents with a scaly, itchy rash on the scalp, face, or torso, seborrheic dermatitis could be a likely diagnosis.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS): Although rare, SSSS is a serious condition caused by staphylococcal toxins that can lead to widespread skin lesions and potentially life-threatening complications.
  • Eczema herpeticum: A potentially serious complication of atopic dermatitis, where the skin becomes infected with the herpes simplex virus, leading to widespread, painful lesions.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Keratosis pilaris: A rare condition characterized by small, rough bumps on the skin, often on the arms or legs.
  • Pityrosporum folliculitis: A rare fungal infection of the hair follicles, which can cause itchy, inflamed lesions.
  • Erythema toxicum neonatorum: A rare condition that affects newborns, characterized by small, yellow or white bumps on the skin.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

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.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.