Differential Diagnosis for Redness in Hands
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Erythema (superficial inflammation of the skin) due to environmental factors or irritants: This is the most common cause of redness in hands, often resulting from exposure to cold, heat, or chemicals, and can be easily treated with topical creams or avoidance of the irritant.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Contact dermatitis: An allergic reaction or irritation from substances like soaps, detergents, or certain metals, leading to red, itchy, and inflamed skin on the hands.
- Psoriasis: A chronic autoimmune condition that speeds up the life cycle of skin cells, causing cells to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin, leading to red, scaly patches on the hands.
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis): A condition that makes the skin red and itchy, and can be triggered by various factors including allergies, stress, and environmental factors.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, swelling, and warmth of the skin, and if left untreated, can lead to serious complications such as sepsis.
- Sepsis: A life-threatening condition that occurs when the body's response to an infection damages its own tissues and organs, which can be indicated by redness and swelling in the hands if the infection is localized.
- Raynaud's phenomenon: A condition that affects blood flow to the fingers and toes, and can cause the skin to turn red, white, or blue, potentially leading to tissue damage if not properly managed.
- Rare diagnoses
- Scleroderma: A group of rare diseases that involve the hardening and tightening of skin and connective tissues, which can cause redness, swelling, and pain in the hands.
- Lupus: A chronic autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation and redness in various parts of the body, including the hands.
- Erythromelalgia: A rare disorder that causes burning pain, heat, and redness in the hands and feet, often accompanied by an increased heart rate and high blood pressure.