Differential Diagnosis for Body Wide Pruritic Papular Rash
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema): A common condition characterized by itchy, inflamed skin, often presenting with a papular rash. The chronic nature and body-wide distribution of the rash make atopic dermatitis a strong consideration.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Contact Dermatitis: An allergic or irritant reaction to substances like soaps, detergents, or metals, leading to a pruritic papular rash. The widespread nature could suggest an allergen that is commonly encountered.
- Papular Urticaria: A condition caused by an allergic reaction to insect bites or other environmental factors, resulting in itchy papules.
- Drug Eruption: A rash caused by an adverse reaction to medication, which can present in various forms, including a pruritic papular rash.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma (Mycosis Fungoides): A rare form of skin cancer that can initially present with a pruritic, papular rash, emphasizing the importance of not missing this potentially deadly diagnosis.
- Hodgkin Lymphoma: Some forms of lymphoma can present with skin manifestations, including pruritic rashes, making it crucial to consider in the differential diagnosis.
- Thyroid Disease: Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can cause skin changes, including pruritus, though a papular rash is less common.
Rare Diagnoses
- Pityriasis Rosea: A condition characterized by a rash that starts with a single patch (herald patch) followed by an eruption of smaller patches, typically on the trunk. While it can be pruritic, the pattern is usually distinct.
- Keratosis Pilaris: A condition that causes small, rough patches on the skin, often accompanied by itching, but it tends to be more localized.
- Erythroderma (Exfoliative Dermatitis): A condition where there is widespread scaling of the skin, often accompanied by erythema and pruritus. It can be a presentation of various underlying conditions, including malignancies.