Differential Diagnosis for Razor Rash
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Pseudofolliculitis barbae: This condition is the most common cause of razor rash, especially in individuals with curly hair. It occurs when hair curls back into the skin, causing inflammation and leading to a rash.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Irritant contact dermatitis: This is a common condition caused by friction from shaving, leading to redness, itching, and small bumps on the skin.
- Ingrown hairs (folliculitis): Similar to pseudofolliculitis barbae, ingrown hairs can cause redness, itching, and inflammation, especially if the hair becomes infected.
- Razor burn: A general term for the irritation and redness caused by shaving, often due to using a dull razor, shaving too closely, or shaving over the same spot multiple times.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Cellulitis: A bacterial infection of the skin that can spread rapidly and become serious if not treated promptly. While less common than other causes of razor rash, it's crucial to identify and treat cellulitis early.
- MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) infection: A type of bacterial infection that is resistant to many antibiotics and can cause severe skin infections. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are critical.
- Rare diagnoses
- Sarcoidosis: A condition that can cause skin lesions, including those that might resemble a razor rash, though this would be an uncommon presentation.
- Keratosis pilaris: A harmless condition that causes small, rough patches on the skin, which might be mistaken for a razor rash in some cases.
- Dermatological conditions like psoriasis or eczema: While these conditions have distinct characteristics, in rare cases, they might present with symptoms that could be confused with a razor rash, especially if the patient has not previously been diagnosed with these conditions.