Differential Diagnosis for Rash
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Contact Dermatitis: This is a common condition that occurs when the skin comes into contact with an allergen or irritant, leading to a rash. It's likely due to its high prevalence and the fact that it can be caused by a wide range of substances, including soaps, detergents, and plants.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis): A chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It's a common condition that can be triggered by various factors, including allergies and environmental factors.
- Psoriasis: An autoimmune condition that causes red, scaly patches on the skin. It's a likely diagnosis due to its relatively high prevalence and the fact that it can be triggered by various factors, including stress and skin injuries.
- Allergic Reaction (Urticaria): A condition characterized by itchy, raised welts on the skin, often caused by an allergic reaction to a substance such as food, medication, or insect bites.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Meningococcemia: A life-threatening condition caused by a bacterial infection that can cause a rash, fever, and other symptoms. It's essential to consider this diagnosis due to its high mortality rate if left untreated.
- Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever: A tick-borne illness that can cause a rash, fever, and other symptoms. It's a critical diagnosis to consider due to its potential for severe complications and high mortality rate if left untreated.
- Stevens-Johnson Syndrome: A rare but life-threatening condition that causes a severe rash, blisters, and other symptoms, often triggered by medication or infection.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Pityriasis Rosea: A rare skin condition characterized by a rash and patches of skin that are scaly and inflamed. It's a rare diagnosis, but it's essential to consider it due to its unique presentation.
- Kawasaki Disease: A rare condition that causes a rash, fever, and other symptoms, primarily affecting children. It's a rare diagnosis, but it's crucial to consider it due to its potential for severe complications if left untreated.
- Erythema Multiforme: A rare skin condition characterized by a rash and target-shaped lesions, often triggered by infection or medication. It's a rare diagnosis, but it's essential to consider it due to its unique presentation and potential for severe complications.