Differential Diagnosis for Neck Skin Sensitivity

• Single most likely diagnosis
  • Contact dermatitis: This is a common condition that occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen, leading to sensitivity, redness, and itching. The neck is a common area for contact dermatitis due to jewelry, clothing, or personal care products.
• Other Likely diagnoses
  • Eczema (atopic dermatitis): A chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. The neck can be one of the affected areas.
  • Psoriasis: An autoimmune condition that speeds up the life cycle of skin cells, causing cells to build up rapidly on the surface of the skin. The neck can be an area of involvement.
  • Seborrheic dermatitis: A condition that causes scaly patches, red skin, and stubborn dandruff due to an oily scalp and other areas, including the neck.
• Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
  • Meningitis: Although rare, neck skin sensitivity could be a symptom of meningitis, especially if accompanied by fever, headache, and stiff neck.
  • Thyroid disorders: Certain thyroid conditions, such as thyroiditis, can cause skin sensitivity in the neck area.
  • Lymphoma: Some types of lymphoma can cause skin lesions or sensitivity in the neck area due to lymph node involvement.
• Rare diagnoses
  • Sjögren's syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can cause skin sensitivity, among other symptoms, due to inflammation of exocrine glands.
  • Dermatomyositis: A condition characterized by muscle weakness and skin rash, which can include sensitivity in the neck area.
  • Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (Mycosis fungoides): A rare type of skin cancer that can cause skin sensitivity, lesions, and rashes, including in the neck area.