Differential Diagnosis for a Rash Resembling Milia in an Adult with Some Redness
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Milia: This condition is characterized by small, white bumps on the skin that occur when keratin, a protein, becomes trapped under the skin's surface. The presence of some redness could be due to inflammation or irritation of the surrounding skin.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Keratosis Pilaris: A skin condition that causes rough, dry patches and small bumps, often accompanied by redness. It's common in adults and could be mistaken for milia, especially if the bumps are small.
- Folliculitis: An inflammation of the hair follicles, which can cause redness, itching, and small bumps that might resemble milia. It can be caused by bacterial or fungal infections.
- Comedonal Acne: A form of acne that presents with small, white bumps (closed comedones) or blackheads (open comedones), which could be confused with milia, especially if there's associated redness.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Sweat Gland Disorders (e.g., Eccrine Poroma): Though rare, disorders of the sweat glands can cause skin lesions that might resemble milia. These conditions can sometimes be malignant, making them crucial not to miss.
- Basal Cell Carcinoma: The most common form of skin cancer, which can sometimes present as small, pearly bumps. While less likely, it's critical to consider due to its potential severity.
- Merkel Cell Carcinoma: A rare and aggressive skin cancer that can present as a firm, painless nodule or bump, which might be mistaken for a benign condition like milia.
Rare Diagnoses
- Trichoepithelioma: A rare, benign skin tumor that can appear as small, skin-colored bumps. It's part of a spectrum of conditions related to hair follicle tumors.
- Syringomas: Benign tumors of the sweat glands that can cause small, skin-colored or yellowish bumps, typically around the eyes but can appear elsewhere. They might be confused with milia due to their appearance.
- Multiple Myxomas: Rare, benign skin tumors that can appear as small, skin-colored bumps. They are often associated with other systemic conditions (e.g., Carney complex).