Body Rash Diagnosis
A rash is an eruption or irritation of the skin that can occur in one location or spread across the body. Rashes are rarely dangerous themselves, but can point to a more serious underlying problem. Even if the rash is not causing discomfort it should be evaluated and diagnosed by a trained medical professional. There are many different types of rashes and a proper diagnosis can help determine the course of treatment.
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Atopic Dermatitis
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Atopic dermatitis is an allergic reaction in the skin. Rashes commonly appear on the hands, feet, face, inside the elbows and behind the knees. It is characterized by dry, itchy skin. Scratching the skin can lead to redness, swelling, crusting and seeping of clear fluid. Infants, children and people who live in dry climates are at the highest risk for atopic dermatitis. Treatment is based on age and severity of the rash and may include skin creams, antihistamines to relieve the itching and immunosuppressant drugs
Contact Dermatitis
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Contact dermatitis is caused by direct contact with an allergen. It can be caused by poison ivy, oak or sumac, latex, topical medications, perfume or anything else that can cause an allergy. Symptoms include itching, redness and swelling, and skin lesions that may ooze liquid. The area around the rash may also feel warm to the touch. If the rash is recurring, a physician may do a skin test to determine the cause. Patches containing various potential allergens are applied to the skin. After 48 hours, they are removed to see if a reaction is present. Treatment includes thoroughly cleansing the area to remove all traces of the allergen and applying anti-itch cream.
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Viral Rashes
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Chickenpox and fifth disease are common viral infections that cause rashes. Chickenpox usually begins on the face and trunk of the body, then spreads out to the limbs. It is characterized by a blister-like, extremely itchy rash. Fifth disease starts on the face and looks like sunburn or a slapped cheek. Slightly elevated pink bumps on the arms and legs follow and change into a lacy rash after several days. Treatment of viral rashes is aimed at relieving the symptoms. They usually clear up within one to two weeks.
Fungal Rashes
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Fungal infections can be caused by contact with fungi or by an overproduction of certain fungi already present on the body. Ringworm and athlete's foot are two of the most common types of fungal rashes. Ringworm is characterized by a small, circular rash and is contagious. Athlete's foot can cause small blisters or large scales over the foot, depending on the type. Treating fungal infections can be difficult and they are likely to return. Antifungal topical treatments may be effective, but more stubborn infections can require oral medications. Keep skin dry and cool and avoid sharing personal items such as combs and towels to help prevent fungal rashes.
Bacterial Rashes
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Impetigo is the most common type of bacterial rash. It is caused by staph and strep bacteria and is highly contagious. Impetigo appears as red sores that rupture and ooze liquid before turning into a brownish crusty rash. Although rare, impetigo can cause cellulitis, an infection beneath the skin that can spread into the blood stream and become life-threatening. Impetigo is treated with topical and oral antibiotics.
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