Differential Diagnosis for Facial Rash

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): This is a common condition characterized by itchy, inflamed skin, which can appear as a rash on the face. It's often seen in individuals with a history of allergies or asthma.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Acne: A skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to pimples and sometimes a rash-like appearance on the face.
  • Contact Dermatitis: A type of inflammation of the skin that occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen, leading to a rash.
  • Rosacea: A condition characterized by a red rash on the face, often accompanied by acne-like symptoms, and can be triggered by various factors including sun exposure, stress, and certain foods.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Lupus: A chronic autoimmune disease that can cause a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose, among other symptoms. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective management.
  • Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, swelling, and warmth of the skin, which can appear as a rash. It requires prompt antibiotic treatment to prevent serious complications.
  • Meningitis (in cases of petechial rash): Although rare, a petechial rash (small red or purple spots) on the face can be a sign of meningitis, especially in children. This is a medical emergency.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Sarcoidosis: A disease characterized by the growth of tiny collections of inflammatory cells (granulomas) in any part of the body, which can cause a rash on the face, among other symptoms.
  • Dermatomyositis: An inflammatory disease characterized by muscle weakness and a distinctive skin rash, which can appear on the face.
  • Kawasaki Disease: A rare condition mainly affecting children under the age of 5, characterized by a fever, rash, and swelling of the hands and feet, which can sometimes involve the face.