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Differential Diagnosis for Non-Blanching Rash

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Petechiae or Purpura: These are small, pinpoint spots that occur due to minor hemorrhages from broken capillary blood vessels. They are non-blanching, meaning they do not fade when pressed. This condition is common and can be caused by various factors, including trauma, infections, or medications.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Eczema (Dermatitis): While eczema typically presents with blanching rashes, certain types, especially when in the healing phase or with significant inflammation, can have non-blanching components.
  • Vasculitis: This refers to inflammation of the blood vessels and can cause a non-blanching rash due to the damage to the vessel walls, leading to bleeding into the skin.
  • Thrombocytopenia: A condition characterized by low platelet count, which can lead to easy bruising and petechiae, both of which are non-blanching.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Meningococcemia: A severe infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis, which can present with a non-blanching rash (purpura) and is life-threatening if not promptly treated.
  • Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC): A condition that prevents the blood from clotting properly, leading to widespread clotting and bleeding, which can manifest as a non-blanching rash.
  • Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF): A tick-borne disease that can cause a non-blanching rash, fever, and other systemic symptoms, and is severe if not treated early.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Henoch-Schönlein Purpura (HSP): A form of vasculitis that affects blood vessels and is characterized by a non-blanching rash, abdominal pain, and joint pain. It's more common in children.
  • Kawasaki Disease: An illness that affects children and can cause a non-blanching rash, along with fever, swollen lymph nodes, and other symptoms. It's rare but can lead to serious heart problems if not treated.
  • Leukocytoclastic Vasculitis: A condition that involves inflammation of the small blood vessels and can cause a non-blanching rash, among other symptoms. It's relatively rare and can be associated with various underlying conditions or medications.

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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