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 29, 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 Skin Rash in a 40-year-old Male with Stage 4 Bladder Cancer

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Contact Dermatitis: Given the patient's recent hospitalization and exposure to various medical products, contact dermatitis is a plausible cause for the skin rash, especially if the rash is localized to the pelvic region where medical devices or products might have been applied.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Drug Rash (Pembrolizumab or Enfortumab): Both pembrolizumab and enfortumab are known to cause skin reactions as part of their side effect profile. The rash could be an adverse reaction to one of these medications.
  • Intertrigo: This is a type of skin inflammation caused by skin-on-skin friction, which could be exacerbated in the pelvic region, especially if the patient has been less mobile during hospitalization.
  • Candidal Intertrigo: Given the warm, moist environment of the pelvic region, a fungal infection such as candidal intertrigo could develop, especially if the patient's immune system is compromised due to cancer treatment.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS) or Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN): Although less common, these severe skin conditions can be life-threatening and are associated with medication use, including some cancer therapies. The presence of blisters and the patient's recent medication regimen make this a critical diagnosis not to miss.
  • Invasive Fungal Infection: In immunocompromised patients, such as those on pembrolizumab, the risk of invasive fungal infections is increased. A skin rash could be the initial presentation of a more serious underlying infection.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Paraneoplastic Pemphigus: A rare autoimmune disorder associated with certain types of cancer, characterized by blistering of the skin and mucous membranes. Although rare, it's a consideration in a patient with stage 4 cancer.
  • Graft-Versus-Host Disease (GVHD): If the patient has undergone any form of bone marrow transplant or has received blood products, GVHD could be a rare but possible cause of the skin rash, especially if the rash is part of a broader systemic reaction.

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.