Differential Diagnosis for White Patches on the Cheeks of Pediatrics
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Oral Thrush: This is a common fungal infection in children, especially in infants, caused by Candida albicans. It can cause white patches on the cheeks, tongue, and other areas inside the mouth. The patches can be wiped off, but they may bleed underneath.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Milia: These are small, white bumps on the skin that are caused by keratin, a protein, getting trapped under the skin. They are very common in newborns but can occur in older children as well.
- Fordyce Spots: These are small, white or yellowish spots on the lips, cheeks, and sometimes the genital area. They are caused by the abnormal presence of sebaceous glands in the mucous membranes and are generally harmless.
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): While not typically presenting as white patches, eczema can cause lightening or whitening of the skin in some cases due to chronic inflammation and scratching.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Lichen Planus: A rare condition in children, lichen planus can cause white, lacy patches in the mouth, including on the cheeks. It's essential to diagnose this condition to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
- Leukoplakia: This condition causes white patches or plaques on the mucous membranes, including the cheeks. It can be a precursor to cancer, although this is rare in children.
Rare Diagnoses
- Pityriasis Alba: A mild form of eczema that can cause small, round, light patches on the face, including the cheeks, often accompanied by mild scaling.
- Darier's Disease: A rare genetic disorder that affects the skin, causing white or pink patches and lesions, among other symptoms.
- White Sponge Nevus: A rare, benign condition that causes white, spongy patches on the mucous membranes, including the cheeks, due to a mutation in the keratin genes.