What is the cause of a facial rash around the eyes in a 13-month-old infant?

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Differential Diagnosis for 13-month-old with Face Rash to Eyes

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): This is a common condition in infants, often presenting with a rash on the face, especially around the eyes, due to allergic reactions or sensitivities. The age and location of the rash make eczema a probable diagnosis.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Allergic Contact Dermatitis: This could be due to an allergic reaction to products such as soaps, lotions, or even certain components in diapers, which come into contact with the skin around the eyes.
    • Impetigo: A contagious bacterial skin infection that can cause red sores on the face, which can spread to the area around the eyes.
    • Rosacea: Though less common in infants, it can cause a rash on the face, including around the eyes, often accompanied by redness and small bumps.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
    • Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Infection: HSV can cause a severe infection around the eyes (herpes simplex keratitis), which, if not promptly treated, can lead to serious complications including blindness.
    • Meningitis: Though the primary symptom is not typically a rash, some forms of meningitis can present with a rash, and given the severity of the disease, it's crucial to consider, especially if other symptoms like fever, irritability, or lethargy are present.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Lupus: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is rare in infants and can cause a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose, extending to the area around the eyes.
    • Sarcoidosis: A condition that can cause skin rashes, among other symptoms, and though rare in infants, it can affect any age group.
    • Kawasaki Disease: An illness that affects children and can cause a rash, among other symptoms like fever and swollen lymph nodes, though it typically doesn't target the area around the eyes specifically.

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.

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