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Differential Diagnosis for Malar Rash in a 50-year-old Female

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): This is the most common cause of a malar rash, which is a characteristic "butterfly-shaped" rash across the cheeks and nose. SLE is an autoimmune disease that can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, and other organs.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Rosacea: A chronic skin condition characterized by inflammation of the skin on the face, leading to redness, acne-like symptoms, and sometimes a malar rash.
  • Dermatomyositis: An inflammatory disease that affects the muscles and the skin, causing a distinctive rash on the face, including the malar area, as well as muscle weakness.
  • Sjögren's Syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the glands that produce tears and saliva, but can also cause skin rashes, including a malar rash.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Lyme Disease: Caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted through the bite of an infected tick. Early stages can present with a distinctive rash (erythema migrans), which, although not typically malar, should be considered due to its serious implications if untreated.
  • Erythema Multiforme: A skin condition characterized by target lesions, which can sometimes appear as a malar rash. It can be triggered by infections or medications and has a range of severity.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Sarcoidosis: A disease in which granulomas (abnormal masses of inflamed tissue) can form in various parts of the body, including the skin, leading to rashes that could resemble a malar rash.
  • Polymorphous Light Eruption (PMLE): A skin condition that occurs in response to sunlight, causing a rash that could potentially appear on the face, including the malar area, though it's less common in this specific distribution.

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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