Differential Diagnosis for Facial Rash around Mouth with Yellow Crust
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Impetigo: This is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection that often presents with a yellow crust around the mouth and nose. The presence of a yellow crust is a hallmark of impetigo, making it the most likely diagnosis.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Perioral dermatitis: Characterized by a rash around the mouth, perioral dermatitis can sometimes have a crusty appearance, although it's more commonly associated with redness and small bumps.
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis): Eczema can cause a rash around the mouth and may become infected, leading to a crusty appearance.
- Contact dermatitis: An allergic reaction or irritation from substances like cosmetics, food, or metals can cause a rash around the mouth, potentially with crusting if infected.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cellulitis: Although less common with a distinct yellow crust, cellulitis is a serious bacterial infection of the skin that requires prompt treatment. It can present with redness, swelling, and sometimes crusting if secondarily infected.
- Lupus: Systemic lupus erythematosus can cause a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose, which might be mistaken for a rash around the mouth. While not typically associated with a yellow crust, lupus is a serious condition that should not be missed.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Sarcoidosis: A condition that can cause skin lesions, including around the mouth, although these are not typically described as having a yellow crust.
- Granuloma faciale: A rare skin condition that causes nodular lesions, typically on the face, which might be confused with a rash but does not usually present with a yellow crust.
- Infectious diseases like syphilis or leprosy can also cause facial rashes but are less common and might not typically present with a yellow crust around the mouth.