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.