Differential Diagnosis for Red Rash Around Underwear
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Contact dermatitis: This is the most likely diagnosis due to the common occurrence of irritants or allergens in underwear materials, detergents, or fabric softeners that can cause a red rash.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Intertrigo: A rash in the skin folds, including the groin area, caused by friction, moisture, and bacterial or fungal infections.
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis): A chronic skin condition characterized by itchy, inflamed skin that can appear anywhere on the body, including the groin area.
- Irritant dermatitis: Similar to contact dermatitis but caused by substances that directly irritate the skin, such as soaps, lotions, or urine.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, swelling, and warmth, which requires prompt antibiotic treatment to prevent serious complications.
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection: Can cause painful blisters or rashes in the genital area, which is crucial to diagnose due to its infectious nature and the need for antiviral treatment.
- Syphilis: A sexually transmitted infection that can cause a rash, among other symptoms, and is critical to diagnose and treat to prevent long-term complications.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Lichen planus: An inflammatory condition that can affect the skin and mucous membranes, causing a purplish, itchy, flat rash.
- Lichen sclerosus: A rare condition that creates patchy, white skin that's thinner than normal, which can appear in the genital and anal areas.
- Zinc deficiency: Can lead to skin lesions and rashes, including around the diaper area in infants or areas covered by tight clothing in adults.