Differential Diagnosis for Scrotum Rash in a Toddler
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis): This is a common condition in toddlers, characterized by itchy, inflamed skin that can appear anywhere on the body, including the scrotum. The scrotum's thin skin makes it prone to irritation and eczema.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Contact dermatitis: This is a skin reaction that occurs after contact with an irritant or allergen, such as soaps, detergents, or certain fabrics. It can cause redness, itching, and a rash on the scrotum.
- Seborrheic dermatitis: This condition causes a red, itchy rash, often with a scaly appearance, and can affect the scrotum, especially in areas with high oil production.
- Irritant dermatitis: Similar to contact dermatitis but caused by substances like urine or feces coming into contact with the skin, which can be common in toddlers with poor hygiene or diaper rash.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Testicular torsion: Although this condition presents more commonly with acute pain and swelling rather than a rash, it's crucial to consider due to its emergency nature requiring immediate surgical intervention.
- Epididymitis: Inflammation of the epididymis, which can be caused by bacterial infection, and while less common in toddlers, it's a significant condition that requires prompt treatment.
- Rare diagnoses
- Psoriasis: An autoimmune condition that can cause red, scaly patches on the skin, including the scrotum, though it's less common in toddlers.
- Lichen sclerosus: A rare condition that creates patchy, white skin that's thinner than normal, which can appear on the scrotum and is more common in boys before puberty.
- Kawasaki disease: A rare condition that mainly affects children under the age of 5, characterized by fever, rash, swelling of hands and feet, and other symptoms, including potential genital rash.