Differential Diagnosis for Skin Soft Tissue Infection
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Cellulitis: This is the most common skin and soft tissue infection, characterized by redness, warmth, swelling, and pain in the affected area. It is often caused by streptococcal or staphylococcal bacteria.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Abscess: A localized collection of pus that can occur in any skin or soft tissue, often caused by Staphylococcus aureus.
- Folliculitis: An infection of the hair follicles, typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus, presenting with small, pus-filled bumps.
- Furuncle (Boil): A deeper infection of the hair follicle and surrounding tissue, also usually caused by Staphylococcus aureus.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Necrotizing Fasciitis: A severe infection that destroys the tissue under the skin, including fat and the tissue covering the muscles (fascia). It is a medical emergency and can be deadly if not promptly treated.
- Gas Gangrene: A potentially deadly infection caused by Clostridium perfringens, characterized by gas production in the tissues, leading to tissue death.
- Erysipelas: A type of skin infection that involves the upper layer of the skin and can spread rapidly, often caused by streptococcal bacteria.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Ecthyma: A variant of impetigo that extends into the dermis, causing shallow ulcerations.
- Actinomycosis: A rare chronic infection caused by Actinomyces bacteria, which can affect the skin and soft tissues, among other areas.
- Mycobacterial infections (e.g., Mycobacterium tuberculosis, M. leprae): Though more commonly associated with systemic or pulmonary disease, these bacteria can cause skin and soft tissue infections, especially in immunocompromised individuals.