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Differential Diagnosis for Axillary Rash and Lymphadenopathy

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Contact Dermatitis: This is a common condition that can cause a rash and lymphadenopathy in the axillary region, often due to an allergic reaction to deodorants, antiperspirants, or other personal care products.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): A chronic skin condition characterized by itchy, inflamed skin, which can lead to lymphadenopathy due to the body's immune response.
  • Folliculitis: An inflammation of the hair follicles, often caused by bacterial or fungal infections, which can cause a rash and lymphadenopathy in the axillary region.
  • Psoriasis: A chronic autoimmune condition that can cause skin lesions and lymphadenopathy, although it less commonly presents in the axillae.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Lymphoma: Although less common, lymphoma can present with lymphadenopathy and skin lesions, making it crucial not to miss this potentially life-threatening diagnosis.
  • Infectious Diseases (e.g., Tuberculosis, Cat-Scratch Disease): Certain infectious diseases can cause lymphadenopathy and skin rashes, and missing these diagnoses could lead to severe consequences.
  • Breast Cancer: In rare cases, breast cancer can metastasize to the axillary lymph nodes, causing lymphadenopathy, and may be associated with skin changes or rashes in the axillary region.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Sarcoidosis: A condition characterized by the growth of granulomas in various parts of the body, which can cause lymphadenopathy and skin lesions, including in the axillary region.
  • Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A chronic skin condition that can cause painful lesions and abscesses in the axillary region, potentially leading to lymphadenopathy.
  • Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma: A rare type of skin cancer that can cause skin lesions and lymphadenopathy, including in the axillary region.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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