What causes nocturnal pruritus with excoriations between the fingers?

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Differential Diagnosis for Itching at Night with Excoriations between the Fingers

  • Single most likely diagnosis:
    • Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): This condition is characterized by intense itching, especially at night, and can lead to excoriations due to scratching. The areas between the fingers are a common site for atopic dermatitis lesions.
  • Other Likely diagnoses:
    • Contact Dermatitis: Allergic or irritant contact dermatitis can cause itching and skin lesions, including between the fingers, due to exposure to allergens or irritants.
    • Scabies: Caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabiei, scabies leads to severe itching, particularly at night, and can result in excoriations. The web spaces between the fingers are a typical location for scabies lesions.
    • Dyshidrotic Eczema: This form of eczema is characterized by small, itchy blisters on the hands and feet, including the areas between the fingers.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.):
    • Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma (Mycosis Fungoides): Although rare, this condition can present with itching and skin lesions. It's crucial to consider this diagnosis to avoid delayed treatment.
    • Hypereosinophilic Syndrome: A group of disorders characterized by an overproduction of eosinophils, which can lead to itching and skin lesions.
  • Rare diagnoses:
    • Keratolysis Exfoliativa: A rare condition causing peeling of the skin on the palms and soles, which might be accompanied by itching.
    • Pompholyx: A type of eczema that affects the hands and feet, characterized by small, itchy blisters.
    • Acarodermatitis: Itching and skin lesions caused by an allergic reaction to the saliva or feces of mites in food or other products.

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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