Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Trauma or injury: This is the most common cause of a small perioral scar, resulting from accidental falls, fights, or other forms of physical trauma.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Acne or dermatological conditions: Conditions like acne, impetigo, or other skin infections can lead to scarring around the mouth.
- Surgical or procedural scars: Scars from procedures such as mole removal, skin biopsies, or other minor surgeries in the perioral area.
- Herpes simplex virus (cold sore): Recurrent herpes simplex infections can cause scarring, especially if the lesions become secondarily infected.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma: Although less common, these skin cancers can present with scarring, especially if they have been treated or are in the process of healing.
- Lupus or other autoimmune diseases: Certain autoimmune conditions can cause skin lesions that may scar, including those around the mouth.
Rare Diagnoses
- Sarcoidosis: A condition that can cause skin lesions, including around the mouth, which may lead to scarring.
- Tuberculosis (cutaneous): Although rare, cutaneous tuberculosis can cause lesions and scarring in various parts of the body, including the perioral area.
- Leishmaniasis (cutaneous): This parasitic infection can cause skin lesions that may leave scars, including in the perioral region, especially in individuals who have traveled to or live in endemic areas.