Differential Diagnosis for Eroded Red Skin on Face
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Rosacea: This condition is characterized by chronic inflammation of the skin on the face, leading to redness, acne-like symptoms, and sometimes eroded skin. Its prevalence and the match of symptoms make it a top consideration.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Acne: Especially severe forms like acne fulminans, can cause redness and erosion of the skin on the face.
- Seborrheic Dermatitis: This condition causes scaly patches, red skin, and stubborn dandruff due to an oily scalp, but it can also affect the face, leading to eroded red skin.
- Contact Dermatitis: An allergic reaction or irritation from substances like cosmetics, soaps, or metals can cause red, eroded skin on the face.
- Actinic Keratosis: A precursor to skin cancer, it appears as rough, scaly, or crusty patches on areas of skin that have had prolonged exposure to the sun, which could initially present as eroded red skin.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Lupus: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can cause a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose, which might appear as eroded red skin. Missing this diagnosis could lead to severe systemic complications.
- Sarcoidosis: This condition can cause skin lesions, including those on the face, which might appear as eroded red skin. It affects multiple systems and can have serious consequences if not treated.
- Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma (Mycosis Fungoides): A rare type of skin cancer that can cause patches of red, eroded skin, among other symptoms. Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
- Rare diagnoses
- Pemphigus: A group of rare skin disorders that cause blistering of the skin and mucous membranes, which could lead to eroded red skin on the face.
- Dermatomyositis: An inflammatory disease characterized by skin rash and muscle weakness, the rash can sometimes appear as eroded red skin on the face.
- Erythema Multiforme: A skin condition characterized by target lesions, but in severe forms, it can cause widespread redness and erosion of the skin, including the face.