Differential Diagnosis for Skin Peeling
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Sunburn: This is the most common cause of skin peeling, especially after prolonged exposure to the sun without adequate protection. The peeling is a result of the skin's natural response to damage from UV radiation.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): A condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin, which can lead to peeling, especially if not properly managed.
- 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 extra skin cells form scales and red patches that can peel.
- Contact Dermatitis: A type of inflammation of the skin that occurs when the skin comes into contact with an irritant or allergen, leading to redness, itching, and sometimes peeling.
- Dry Skin (Xerosis): Especially during cold weather or in dry environments, skin can become so dry that it peels.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome (SSSS): A serious condition caused by staphylococcal toxins that typically affects infants and young children, leading to widespread skin peeling.
- Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN): A life-threatening skin condition, usually triggered by medications, leading to widespread skin peeling and detachment.
- Pemphigus: A group of rare skin disorders that cause blistering of the skin and mucous membranes, which can lead to peeling.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Kawasaki Disease: A rare condition that mainly affects children under the age of 5, characterized by fever, rash, swelling of hands and feet, and peeling of the skin, especially on the hands and feet.
- Epidermolysis Bullosa: A group of genetic conditions that result in fragile skin and blisters, which can lead to peeling.
- Peeling Skin Syndrome: A rare genetic disorder characterized by continuous shedding of the outer layer of the skin.