Differential Diagnosis for Scab/Wound/Redness to Left Breast in a 29-Year-Old Patient
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Breast Abscess or Cellulitis: This is a common condition that can cause redness, swelling, and sometimes a scab or wound on the breast. It's often related to bacterial infection and can be seen in lactating or non-lactating women.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Trauma: Direct injury to the breast can cause a scab or wound and surrounding redness due to inflammation.
- Infected Cyst or Folliculitis: An infected sebaceous cyst or folliculitis (infection of the hair follicle) on the breast can present with redness, swelling, and sometimes a scab.
- Eczema/Dermatitis: Eczema or dermatitis of the breast skin can cause redness and sometimes small scabs due to scratching.
- Insect Bite or Allergic Reaction: An allergic reaction to an insect bite can cause localized redness and swelling, potentially with a scab if scratched.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Breast Cancer with Skin Involvement: Although rare in a 29-year-old, breast cancer can cause skin changes, including redness and scabs, especially if it involves the skin (inflammatory breast cancer).
- Necrotizing Fasciitis: A severe bacterial infection that can cause rapid progression of redness, swelling, and necrosis of the skin and underlying tissues. It's rare but life-threatening.
- Lymphoma: Cutaneous lymphoma can manifest as red, scaly patches or lesions on the skin, including the breast area.
Rare Diagnoses
- Granulomatous Mastitis: A rare inflammatory condition of the breast that can cause lumps, redness, and sometimes skin changes.
- Foreign Body Reaction: If a foreign object (like a tattoo or piercing) is introduced into the breast tissue, it can cause a localized reaction, including redness and scabbing.
- Sarcoidosis: A systemic disease that can cause granulomatous inflammation in various parts of the body, including the skin of the breast, leading to redness and lesions.