Skin Rashes

This article will give you a basic overview of skin rashes. However, you'll need to check with your doctor to be sure of the diagnosis and treatment procedure.

Allergic Rashes

Some skin rashes are caused by allergies or irritants to the skin. Here are some common ones:

• Contact dermatitis. Dermatitis essentially means irritated skin. Contact dermatitis is a red, scaly rash that may itch, and the skin may appear cracked and raw. It's not strictly an allergy, but is caused by irritants like harsh soap or scratchy clothing. It should go away when you avoid the irritant.
• Allergic contact dermatitis. This rash is red and very itchy, often with small blisters. Poison ivy is a common cause, with rash appearing in areas that came in contact with the plant. Hydrocortisone cream can help.
• Hives. Hives can be an allergic reaction. They are usually red, raised spots which can appear over the whole body. They may appear after taking a new medication or eating a food you're allergic to. Taking an antihistamine can help.

Viral Rashes

chicken pox rash

Many viruses can cause skin rashes. Here are some of the most well-known:

• Chicken pox. Chicken pox begins as itchy blisters on the face, chest, or back that quickly spread downward. It's accompanied by fever, aches, tiredness, sore throat, and cough. Chicken pox usually gets better on its own. Acetaminophen, cold compresses, and anti-itch cream can help relieve the symptoms.
• Shingles. Shingles is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox. It usually affects only one area of the body. It appears as red, crusty blisters and can be very painful. Over-the-counter pain medicine may help until the rash gets better.
• Fifth Disease. Fifth disease is common in young children. It's a red rash on the cheeks that follows a fever. It should go away on its own.

Fungal Rashes

Although it sounds pretty horrible, it's not uncommon to have a fungal infection of the skin. These rashes can usually be cured easily with antifungal cream, although they may recur. Here are some common types:

• Jock itch/yeast infection. Itchy, red skin in the groin area or in other skin folds may be caused by a fungus. The rash appears red or pink and may be slightly raised.
• Tinea Versicolor. Tinea versicolor describes patches of abnormally light skin, surrounded by skin of normal color. The light patches are caused by a fungal infection.

Bacterial Infections

Bacteria can cause a full-body rash, or just a local infection. Here are some examples:

• Cellulitis. Cellulitis is the medical term for a bacterial skin infection. It appears as a red, painful area, usually swollen and very tender to the touch. Cellulitis may occur around a cut or sore, but sometimes it seems to just happen on its own. Cellulitis can spread rapidly. It must be treated with antibiotics.
• Scarlet Fever. Scarlet fever is caused by streptococcus, the same bacteria that causes strep throat. The bacteria releases a toxin that causes the skin to break out in a rash. The rash starts out looking like an all-over sunburn, and may have tiny, itchy bumps. High fever, sore throat, and swollen glands usually accompany the rash. Although scarlet fever can get better on its own, it's important to treat the bacteria with antibiotics to prevent later complications.

Genetic Skin Rashes

Some skin rashes are genetic, meaning that the person is born with a tendency to develop the rash. These include:

• Psoriasis. Psoriasis is characterized by silvery-white scales over a red or irritated base, and it doesn't usually go away on its own. Your doctor will be able to suggest treatments.
• Eczema. This rash looks similar to contact dermatitis or allergic contact dermatitis, and it can itch severely. About one in ten children has eczema, and adults can develop it, too. It tends to occur in families along with asthma and allergies. Treatment includes prescription creams, careful moisturizing, and avoiding skin irritants.

Rashes that Suggest Serious Illness

There are a few rashes that make doctors worry about more serious, systemic illnesses. A "butterfly rash," which makes a rough butterfly shape over the cheeks and the bridge of the nose, can be a sign of lupus. Lupus is a serious auto-immune disorder, often requiring lifelong treatment. Purpura, small red or blue spots or dots that don't lose their color when pressed, represent bleeding underneath the skin. Purpura can be caused by a number of dangerous conditions; it’s a good reason to call your doctor right away.

Skin Cancer

Skin cancer usually starts as a discrete mole, bump, or patch, not a rash. Still, if you are concerned, you should check with your doctor.

For More Information

• The Nemours Foundation offers good information about children's skin rashes.
• The American Academy of Family Physicians can help you diagnose a skin rash.
• Pictures of Skin Disorders shows photos of several common skin concerns.