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: August 4, 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 Panniculitis

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Erythema nodosum: This is the most common form of panniculitis, characterized by tender, erythematous nodules on the lower extremities, often associated with infections, medications, or systemic diseases.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency: A genetic disorder that can cause panniculitis, particularly in individuals with a family history of the condition or those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
  • Traumatic panniculitis: Can occur after physical trauma, such as a blow to the skin, and is more common in areas with significant subcutaneous fat.
  • Cold panniculitis: Also known as popsicle panniculitis, this condition occurs after exposure to cold temperatures, often in children who suck on cold objects.
  • Factitial panniculitis: A self-inflicted condition where the individual intentionally causes injury to the subcutaneous fat, often for attention or to manipulate others.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Pancreatic panniculitis: Associated with pancreatic disease, such as pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer, and can be life-threatening if not recognized and treated promptly.
  • Lupus profundus: A manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus that involves the subcutaneous fat and can be a sign of more severe disease activity.
  • Infectious panniculitis: Caused by bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections, which can progress rapidly and lead to serious complications if not treated aggressively.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Subcutaneous fat necrosis of the newborn: A rare condition that occurs in newborns, typically after a difficult delivery or in infants with a history of hypothermia.
  • Weber-Christian disease: A rare form of idiopathic panniculitis characterized by recurrent, painful nodules, often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise.
  • Post-steroid panniculitis: A rare condition that occurs after the sudden withdrawal of systemic corticosteroids, leading to inflammation of the subcutaneous fat.

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.