Differential Diagnosis For Skin Conditions Properly Identifi ✓ Solved

Differential Diagnosis For Skin Conditionsproperly Identifying The Cau

Properly identifying the cause and type of a patient’s skin condition involves a process of elimination known as differential diagnosis. Using this process, a health professional can analyze physical abnormalities, vital signs, health assessment findings, and patient symptom descriptions to narrow down possible diagnoses until the most likely cause is determined. In this discussion, visual representations of various skin conditions will be examined, observations described, and differential diagnoses formulated. The SOAP (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, and Plan) note format will be used, following Chapter 2 of Sullivan’s text and the comprehensive SOAP template provided in the learning resources. The focus will be on two selected skin condition graphics, describing their physical characteristics with clinical terminology, considering possible causes, and determining the most probable diagnosis with supporting reasoning.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Subjective

Patient presents with skin alterations observed on two graphics provided. The patient reports no recent trauma or allergic reactions but mentions experiencing mild itching and occasional discomfort in the affected areas. No systemic symptoms like fever or malaise are noted, which suggests a localized skin condition rather than a generalized systemic illness.

Objective

Graphic 1 shows a well-demarcated, erythematous plaque with silvery scales on the extensor surface of the elbow. The lesion appears raised, with flaky, scaly borders and some areas of excoriation due to scratching. No exudate or pustules are visible. Skin around the lesion appears normal in color and texture.

Graphic 2 displays multiple small, papular, hyperpigmented lesions scattered symmetrically across the dorsal aspects of the hands and forearms. The lesions are firm, slightly raised, with a rough surface, and some are coalescing into larger patches. No signs of inflammation or ulceration are present, and the patient reports no pain.

Assessment

Graphic 1 (Elbow Plaque):

Characteristics suggestive of psoriasis vulgaris, including well-defined erythematous plaques with silvery scales, typical site on extensor surfaces, and absence of systemic symptoms (Ball et al., 2015). Differential diagnosis includes seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, or tinea corporis, but the classic psoriatic features are more prominent.

Graphic 2 (Papular Lesions):

The presentation resembles lichen planus or lichenoid dermatitis, characterized by purple, polygonal, flat-topped papules with a rough surface (Chadha, 2009). Differential diagnoses include keratosis pilaris, eczema, or pityriasis rubra pilaris, but the distribution and morphology support lichen planus.

Plan

Graphic 1:

Confirm diagnosis with skin biopsy if needed; initiate topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation; consider phototherapy if lesions persist. Educate patient on skin hydration and avoiding triggers that exacerbate psoriasis, such as stress or infection (Dains et al., 2016).

Graphic 2:

Obtain skin biopsy for definitive diagnosis; treat with topical corticosteroids or calcineurin inhibitors; advise patient on avoiding irritants and maintaining skin hydration. Monitor for potential development of cutaneous or mucosal involvement typical of lichen planus (Seidel et al., 2011).

References

• Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2015). Seidel's guide to physical examination (8th ed.). Elsevier Mosby.
• Chadha, A. (2009). Assessing the skin. Practice Nurse, 38(7), 43–48.
• Dains, J. E., Baumann, L. C., & Scheibel, P. (2016). Advanced health assessment and clinical diagnosis in primary care (5th ed.). Elsevier Mosby.
• Seidel, H. M., Ball, J. W., Dains, J. E., Flynn, J. A., Solomon, B. S., & Stewart, R. W. (2011). Mosby's guide to physical examination (7th ed.). Elsevier Mosby.
• Additional credible sources include recent dermatology textbooks and peer-reviewed articles discussing psoriasis and lichen planus diagnosis and management.