Differential Diagnosis for Flushing of Face

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Menopause: This is often the most common cause of flushing, especially in women of a certain age group, due to hormonal changes.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Anxiety or stress: Emotional states can cause vasodilation, leading to flushing.
  • Alcohol consumption: Alcohol is a common cause of flushing due to its vasodilatory effects.
  • Caffeine intake: Similar to alcohol, caffeine can cause blood vessels to dilate, leading to flushing.
  • Certain medications (e.g., niacin, tamoxifen): Some medications are known to cause flushing as a side effect.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Carcinoid syndrome: A rare condition caused by a neuroendocrine tumor that can lead to flushing, among other symptoms. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis due to its potential severity and the need for early intervention.
  • Pheochromocytoma: A rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can cause episodic flushing, hypertension, and other symptoms. Missing this diagnosis could have severe consequences.
  • Thyrotoxicosis: An excess of thyroid hormones can cause flushing, among other symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Mastocytosis: A condition characterized by an accumulation of mast cells in the body, which can lead to flushing, among other symptoms.
  • Medullary thyroid carcinoma: A type of thyroid cancer that can cause flushing as part of a syndrome that includes diarrhea and other symptoms.
  • Harlequin syndrome: A rare condition characterized by asymmetric flushing and sweating of the face, often related to a disruption in the sympathetic nervous system.