Skin Rashes

eczema rash
Photos of Skin Rashes

Are you wondering what's causing your child's skin rash? Looking for a diagnosis for that itchy, red patch on your arm or those spots your spouse is complaining about? Rashes come in all types and sizes, and they have many causes. If you have a skin rash you'll need to check with your doctor to be sure of the diagnosis and treatment procedure. However, there are many common rashes, and learning a few basics can help you understand more about your condition.

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. According to MedlinePlus, a service of the National Library of Medicine and the National Institute of Health, the most common type is irritant dermatitis. It's not strictly an allergy, but can be 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. According to the American College of Osteophathic Dermatology, this form of dermatitis results from allergic reactions to substances that make direct skin contact. Poison ivy is a common cause, with the rash appearing in areas that came in contact with the plant. Hydrocortisone cream or anti-histamine lotions may 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 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. According to the Centers for Disease Control, vaccination is the best way to prevent this condition.
  • 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. Review the shingles vaccine fact sheet provided by the Centers for Disease Control to learn about the shingles vaccine.
  • Fifth Disease: Fifth disease is common in young children. According to the Centers for Disease Control, it is a viral infection caused by human parvovirus b19. It's a red rash on the cheeks that follows a fever. It should go away on its own and is contagious before the rash appears.

Fungal Rashes

Although it sounds horrible, it's not uncommon to have a fungal infection of the skin that causes or resembles a rash. These rashes can usually be cured with over-the-counter or prescription antifungal cream, although they may recur. Continuing to use the cream until the rash is entirely healed is important to help prevent the return of ths symptoms. Here are some common types of fungal rashes:

  • 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.
  • Ringworm: Ringworm on the body is calledd Tinea corporis. It can produce a round, circular rash on the skin, caused by a fungus and is typically itchy. It can also appear on the scalp.

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. According to the Mayo Clinic, the disease can become life threatening if it is not treated. 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. Learn more bout this condition at KidsHealth.org.

Types of Genetic Rashes

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

  • Psoriasis: According to the American Psoriasis Foundation, this condition is the most common autoimmune disease in the United States. 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. The National Eczema Association provides tips for living with the condition.

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. If you have an concern at all, you should check with your doctor.

For More Information

Seek Medical Care

Although most rashes are harmless and go away on their own, many do require medical care. If you are unsure of the cause of your rash, or if it has the characteristics of a serious illness, it's important to see a physician for a proper diagnosis.