Differential Diagnosis for Dry Scabby Raised Skin
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): This is a common condition characterized by dry, scaly, and raised skin patches. It often presents with intense itching and can be exacerbated by environmental factors or allergens.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Psoriasis: An autoimmune condition leading to dry, scaly, and raised skin lesions, often on the elbows, knees, or scalp. It can be distinguished from eczema by its well-defined borders and silvery scales.
- Contact Dermatitis: A type of skin inflammation caused by contact with irritants or allergens, resulting in dry, scaly, and raised skin. The history of exposure to new substances or products can help in diagnosing this condition.
- Seborrheic Dermatitis: A condition causing scaly patches, red skin, and stubborn dandruff, often due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. It typically affects oily areas of the body, such as the face.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Skin Cancer (Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma): Although less common, skin cancers can present with dry, scaly, and raised skin lesions. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis, especially in lesions that do not heal, bleed, or have an unusual appearance.
- Lupus: Systemic lupus erythematosus can cause skin lesions that are dry, scaly, and raised, often in a butterfly distribution across the cheeks and nose. Other systemic symptoms such as joint pain and fever may accompany the skin findings.
Rare Diagnoses
- Sarcoidosis: A condition where inflammatory cells form lumps known as granulomas in various parts of the body, including the skin. Skin sarcoidosis can present with dry, scaly, and raised lesions, among other skin manifestations.
- Dermatomyositis: An inflammatory disease characterized by skin rash and muscle weakness. The skin manifestations can include dry, scaly, and raised lesions, particularly on the hands, elbows, and knees.