Differential Diagnosis for Skin Infection after Haircut
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Folliculitis: This is the most common skin infection following a haircut, often caused by Staphylococcus aureus. It occurs when the bacteria infect the hair follicles, leading to inflammation and pus-filled bumps.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Pseudofolliculitis barbae (Razor Bumps): This condition is common in individuals with curly hair and occurs due to ingrown hairs, leading to inflammation and bumps.
- Impetigo: A highly contagious skin infection that can be spread through direct contact, including contaminated razors or clippers, often caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes.
- Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can occur if bacteria enter through cuts or nicks in the skin, leading to redness, swelling, and warmth of the skin.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Infection: Although less common, MRSA infections can be severe and are resistant to many antibiotics, making them critical to identify and treat appropriately.
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Infection: If the individual has a cold sore and the razor or clippers are contaminated, there's a risk of spreading HSV to the skin, leading to herpetic lesions.
Rare Diagnoses
- Kerion: A rare but severe form of tinea capitis (ringworm of the scalp) that can lead to significant inflammation and potentially permanent hair loss if not treated.
- Erysipelas: A type of bacterial skin infection that involves the upper dermis, typically caused by Streptococcus bacteria, and can appear as a raised, well-demarcated area of redness.