Differential Diagnosis for Scalp Tenderness
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Tension headache: This is often the most common cause of scalp tenderness, typically resulting from muscle tension in the neck and scalp.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Dermatitis or eczema: Skin conditions like dermatitis or eczema can cause inflammation and tenderness of the scalp.
- Psoriasis: Scalp psoriasis can lead to redness, itching, and tenderness.
- Folliculitis: An inflammation of the hair follicles, often due to infection, which can cause scalp tenderness.
- Seborrheic dermatitis: A condition that can cause a red, itchy, and tender scalp.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Meningitis: Although less common, meningitis is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that can cause scalp tenderness, along with other symptoms like fever, headache, and stiff neck.
- Temporal arteritis: A condition where the blood vessels in the temples become inflamed, leading to scalp tenderness, especially in older adults.
- Subgaleal hematoma: A collection of blood beneath the scalp, which can occur after a head injury and requires prompt medical attention.
Rare Diagnoses
- Trichodynia: A condition characterized by pain or discomfort of the scalp, often associated with hair loss.
- Lichen planopilaris: An inflammatory condition that leads to hair loss and can cause scalp tenderness.
- Sarcoidosis: A rare disease that can cause inflammation in various parts of the body, including the scalp, leading to tenderness.
- Cutaneous lymphoma: A type of cancer that affects the skin and can cause scalp tenderness among other symptoms.