Differential Diagnosis for Redness to the Abdominal Wall with Tiny White Pusules
- Single most likely diagnosis:
- Cellulitis: This is the most likely diagnosis given the symptoms of redness and the presence of tiny white pusules on the abdominal wall. Cellulitis is a common bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, swelling, and sometimes pusules.
- Other Likely diagnoses:
- Folliculitis: An infection of the hair follicles, which can present with redness and pusules, especially if the patient has been shaving or has an underlying skin condition.
- Impetigo: A highly contagious skin infection that can cause red sores or pusules, often with a golden crust, and can occur anywhere on the body, including the abdominal wall.
- Contact Dermatitis: An allergic or irritant reaction to something that has come into contact with the skin, which can cause redness, itching, and sometimes small pusules or blisters.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.):
- Necrotizing Fasciitis: A severe infection that destroys the tissue under the skin, including fat and the tissue covering the muscles (fascia). It's a medical emergency and can be fatal if not treated promptly.
- Erysipelas: A type of skin infection that involves the upper layer of the skin and can spread rapidly, potentially leading to more serious complications if not treated.
- Rare diagnoses:
- Sweet Syndrome (Acute Febrile Neutrophilic Dermatosis): A rare skin condition characterized by fever, inflammation of the skin (dermatosis), and a significant increase in the number of neutrophils in the blood. It can present with red, tender skin lesions that may resemble pusules.
- Pyoderma Gangrenosum: A rare skin condition that causes painful ulcers, typically on the legs, but can occur on the abdominal wall. It's often associated with systemic diseases and can be challenging to diagnose and treat.