Differential Diagnosis for Red Inflammation between Butt Cheeks
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Intertrigo: This is the most common diagnosis for red inflammation between the buttocks. Intertrigo is a type of skin inflammation caused by friction, moisture, and bacterial or fungal infections in the folds of the skin. The warm, moist environment between the buttocks makes it a prime location for intertrigo to develop.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Contact dermatitis: This could be due to an allergic reaction or irritant causing inflammation in the area.
- Folliculitis: An infection of the hair follicles, which can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, and is common in areas with high friction and moisture.
- Anal fissure: A small tear in the lining of the anus, which can cause pain, bleeding, and inflammation.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Necrotizing fasciitis: A rare but life-threatening infection that destroys the tissue under the skin, including fat and the tissue covering the muscles (fascia). Early recognition and treatment are crucial.
- Abscess: A collection of pus that has built up within the tissue of the body, which can be life-threatening if not properly drained.
- Perianal cellulitis: An infection of the skin and tissue around the anus, which can spread and become severe if not treated promptly.
- Rare diagnoses
- Hidradenitis suppurativa: A chronic skin condition characterized by recurring, painful abscesses and nodules in the apocrine-gland-bearing areas of the body, such as the buttocks.
- Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis: Inflammatory bowel diseases that can cause perianal disease, including inflammation, fistulas, and abscesses.
- Erythrasma: A bacterial infection that affects the folds of the skin, causing redness and inflammation, often in the groin or between the buttocks.