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.