Differential Diagnosis for Axillary Rash
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Contact dermatitis: This is often the most common cause of an axillary rash, resulting from irritation or allergic reactions to deodorants, antiperspirants, or other substances that come into contact with the skin in the axillary area.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis): A chronic condition characterized by itchy, inflamed skin, which can occur in the axillary area due to its warm, moist environment.
- Intertrigo: A type of skin inflammation caused by skin friction and moisture, commonly seen in skin folds like the axillae.
- Seborrheic dermatitis: A condition causing scaly patches, red skin, and stubborn dandruff, which can also affect the axillary area.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Breast cancer: Although rare, axillary rashes can be a symptom of inflammatory breast cancer, which is aggressive and requires immediate attention.
- Lymphoma: Certain types of lymphoma can present with skin manifestations, including rashes in unusual locations like the axillae.
- Infections (e.g., cellulitis, abscesses): Bacterial or fungal infections in the axillary area can cause rashes and require prompt treatment to prevent serious complications.
- Rare diagnoses
- Fox-Fordyce disease: A rare condition characterized by itchy, dome-shaped papules in the axillary and pubic areas.
- Hailey-Hailey disease (familial benign pemphigus): A rare genetic disorder causing blistering skin lesions, which can occur in the axillae.
- Granulosis rubra nasi: A rare condition that can cause redness and sweating in the axillary area, among other symptoms.