Differential Diagnosis for Redness and Pain Under the Nose
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Acne vulgaris: This is a common condition characterized by comedones, papules, pustules, and sometimes cysts, often found on the face, including the area under the nose. The demarked redness and pain could be indicative of an inflamed pustule or papule.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Folliculitis: An inflammation of the hair follicles, which can cause redness, pain, and sometimes pus-filled bumps. This condition is common in areas with high hair density, such as the face.
- Impetigo: A highly contagious bacterial skin infection that can cause red sores, especially on the face. It's more common in children but can occur in adults as well.
- Contact dermatitis: A type of skin inflammation caused by contact with irritants or allergens, leading to redness, itching, and sometimes pain. This could be due to cosmetics, soaps, or other products coming into contact with the skin under the nose.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, swelling, and pain. It requires prompt antibiotic treatment to prevent spread and serious complications.
- Erysipelas: A type of skin infection that involves the upper dermis, typically caused by streptococcal bacteria. It presents with well-demarcated, bright red, and painful lesions.
- Nasal furuncle or carbuncle: A boil or group of boils in the nasal area, which can be very painful and may lead to more serious infections if not properly treated.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Lupus pernio: A type of cutaneous sarcoidosis that can cause lesions on the nose, cheeks, lips, eyelids, and ears, but it's less likely to present with acute pain and may not be as demarked.
- Granuloma faciale: A rare skin condition characterized by single or multiple, benign, reddish-brown plaques or nodules, typically on the face, but it's not usually painful and the onset is gradual.