Differential Diagnosis for Papular Rash in Abdomen
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Dermatitis: This is often the most common cause of a papular rash on the abdomen, which can be due to irritant or allergic contact dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, or seborrheic dermatitis. The rash can appear as small, raised bumps and can be itchy.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Eczema: Similar to dermatitis, eczema can cause a papular rash on the abdomen, characterized by itchy, inflamed skin.
- Folliculitis: An inflammation of the hair follicles, which can appear as small, pus-filled bumps on the abdomen, often due to bacterial or fungal infections.
- Keratosis Pilaris: A condition that causes small, rough patches on the skin, often on the abdomen, due to the buildup of keratin.
- Insect Bites: Bites from insects like mosquitoes, fleas, or bed bugs can cause papular rashes on the abdomen.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Meningococcemia: Although rare, this condition can cause a petechial or papular rash and is life-threatening if not treated promptly. It's caused by a bacterial infection that can lead to meningitis or sepsis.
- Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever: A tick-borne illness that can cause a rash, often starting as small, flat, pink, non-itchy spots (macules) on the wrists, ankles, palms, and soles, which can spread to other areas including the abdomen.
- Syphilis: The secondary stage of syphilis can cause a rash on the abdomen, among other places, which can be maculopapular and may resemble other skin conditions.
Rare Diagnoses
- Pityriasis Rosea: A condition that causes a rash, often starting with a single patch (herald patch) followed by an eruption of smaller patches, typically on the trunk, including the abdomen.
- Guttate Psoriasis: A type of psoriasis that appears as small, dot-like lesions, often on the trunk, including the abdomen, usually after a bacterial infection like strep throat.
- Lichen Planus: An inflammatory condition that can affect the skin, causing purplish, itchy, flat bumps, which can appear on the abdomen, though it's more common on the wrists, ankles, and mucous membranes.