What is the cause of erythema (redness) around the buttocks?

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Differential Diagnosis for Red Splotching around the Butt

  • 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 redness, itching, and splotching. The area around the buttocks is prone to irritation from clothing, soaps, or wipes, making contact dermatitis a likely cause.
  • Other Likely diagnoses

    • Intertrigo: This is a type of skin inflammation that occurs in warm, moist areas of the body, such as the groin and buttocks. It is often caused by friction, sweat, and bacterial or fungal infections.
    • Eczema (atopic dermatitis): This is a chronic skin condition that can cause redness, itching, and splotching on various parts of the body, including the buttocks.
    • Psoriasis: This is an autoimmune condition that can cause red, scaly patches on the skin, including the buttocks.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed)

    • Cellulitis: This is a bacterial infection of the skin and underlying tissues that can cause redness, swelling, and warmth. If left untreated, it can lead to serious complications, such as sepsis or abscesses.
    • Necrotizing fasciitis: This is a rare but life-threatening infection that can cause severe pain, redness, and swelling of the skin and underlying tissues.
    • Stevens-Johnson syndrome: This is a rare but serious condition that can cause severe skin and mucous membrane lesions, often in response to medication or infection.
  • Rare diagnoses

    • Pemphigorin: This is a group of rare autoimmune disorders that can cause blistering and redness of the skin.
    • Pyoderma gangrenosum: This is a rare condition that can cause painful ulcers and redness of the skin, often in response to trauma or infection.
    • Erythema multiforme: This is a rare condition that can cause target-shaped lesions and redness of the skin, often in response to infection or medication.

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.

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