Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: September 23, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Painful Rash of the Breast and Stomach

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Herpes Zoster (Shingles): This is a common condition that can cause a painful rash, often affecting one side of the body. The rash can appear on the breast and stomach areas, following a dermatomal distribution. The pain associated with shingles can be severe and precede the rash.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Contact Dermatitis: An allergic reaction or irritation from substances like soaps, detergents, or metals can cause a painful rash on the skin, including the breast and stomach areas.
  • Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): A chronic condition characterized by itchy, inflamed skin. It can appear anywhere on the body, including the breast and stomach, and can be painful.
  • Insect Bites or Stings: Reactions to insect bites or stings can cause painful rashes in affected areas.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Breast Cancer with Skin Involvement: Although rare, advanced breast cancer can cause skin changes, including a painful rash. Early detection is crucial for treatment.
  • Necrotizing Fasciitis: A severe bacterial infection that can cause pain, swelling, and rash. It's a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.
  • Stevens-Johnson Syndrome/Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis: Severe skin conditions usually triggered by medications, leading to widespread skin necrosis and detachment. They are life-threatening and require immediate medical intervention.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Pemphigus: A group of rare skin disorders that cause blistering of the skin and mucous membranes. It can be painful and may appear on the breast and stomach.
  • Dermatomyositis: An inflammatory disease characterized by skin rash and muscle weakness. The rash can appear on the breast and stomach among other areas.
  • Erythema Multiforme: An immune-mediated disorder that can cause target-like lesions on the skin, sometimes painful, and can be triggered by infections 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.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.