Differential Diagnosis for a 2-year-old with Recurrent Localized Red Cheek
- Single most likely diagnosis:
- Slapped cheek syndrome (Erythema infectiosum): This is a common condition in children, caused by parvovirus B19, characterized by a distinctive "slapped cheek" appearance, which fits the description of a recurrent localized red cheek.
- Other Likely diagnoses:
- Eczema (atopic dermatitis): This is a chronic skin condition that can cause redness and inflammation, often affecting the cheeks in young children.
- Allergic contact dermatitis: An allergic reaction to substances like food, cosmetics, or environmental factors can cause localized redness and inflammation on the cheek.
- Impetigo: A contagious bacterial skin infection that can cause red sores on the face, including the cheeks.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.):
- Cellulitis: A bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, swelling, and warmth, which requires prompt antibiotic treatment to prevent serious complications.
- Lupus: Although rare in children, systemic lupus erythematosus can cause a "butterfly" rash on the cheeks, and missing this diagnosis could have severe consequences.
- Rare diagnoses:
- Sarcoidosis: A condition that can cause skin lesions, including on the face, although it is rare in young children.
- Juvenile idiopathic arthritis: Some forms of this condition can cause skin rashes, including on the cheeks, but this would be accompanied by other systemic symptoms.