What is the cause of a petechia-like rash with slightly raised lesions on the arms, abdomen, and legs, sparing the groin, in a patient taking losartan (Losartan)-hydrochlorothiazide (Hydrochlorothiazide) for 2 months and weekly testosterone (Testosterone) supplement injections, with no systemic symptoms, fever, or recent travel history, except a trip to Ireland 2 weeks ago?

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Differential Diagnosis for Rash

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Drug-induced petechiae or purpura: The recent introduction of losartan-hydrochlorothiazide 2 months ago could be the culprit, as some medications are known to cause petechiae or purpura-like rashes. The fact that the rash spares the groin and is not accompanied by systemic symptoms or fever makes this a plausible option.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Vasculitis: Given the description of slightly raised lesions, vasculitis could be a consideration, although the lack of systemic symptoms and fever makes it less likely.
    • Thrombocytopenia: Although not directly mentioned, the use of testosterone supplements could potentially affect platelet count, leading to thrombocytopenia, which might manifest as petechiae.
    • Allergic reaction: An allergic reaction to the testosterone supplement or another environmental factor could also present with a petechial rash.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
    • Meningococcemia: Although the patient does not have fever or systemic symptoms, meningococcemia can present with a petechial rash and is a medical emergency. The recent travel to Ireland could be a risk factor, as certain regions have higher incidence rates.
    • Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC): This condition can cause petechiae and would be critical to identify due to its high mortality rate if left untreated.
    • Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP): Another condition that, although rare, could present with petechiae and would require immediate medical attention.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP): A form of vasculitis that can present with purpura, although it typically affects the lower extremities and buttocks, and is often accompanied by abdominal pain and arthritis.
    • Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: A genetic disorder that can affect skin and blood vessels, potentially leading to easy bruising and petechiae, but this would likely be a long-standing condition rather than an acute presentation.

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