Differential Diagnosis for Butterfly Rash on Face
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): This is the most common condition associated with a butterfly-shaped rash on the face, typically spanning across the cheeks and nose. The rash is often accompanied by other symptoms such as joint pain, fever, and fatigue.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Rosacea: A chronic skin condition characterized by inflammation, redness, and acne-like symptoms on the face, which can sometimes resemble a butterfly distribution.
- Dermatomyositis: An inflammatory disease affecting the skin and muscles, which can cause a rash on the face, including the cheeks and nose, though it's less typical than SLE.
- Sjögren's Syndrome: An autoimmune disorder that can cause skin rashes, including a butterfly-shaped rash, though it's more commonly associated with dry eyes and mouth.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Lyme Disease: Although less common, Lyme disease can cause a rash that might be mistaken for a butterfly rash, and missing this diagnosis could lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.
- Sarcoidosis: A condition that can cause skin rashes, including on the face, and can be life-threatening if it affects vital organs and is not diagnosed and treated.
- Rare diagnoses
- Erythema Multiforme: A skin condition characterized by target-shaped lesions, which can occasionally appear as a butterfly rash on the face, though it's rare and usually associated with other symptoms.
- Pemphigus: A group of rare skin disorders that cause blistering of the skin and mucous membranes, which can very rarely present with a butterfly-like rash on the face.