Rash Identification and Treatment
Rashes are areas of swollen, irritated, inflamed, and/or discolored skin that are likely to cause itchiness, pain, and irritation. A rash is not a diagnosis, but a symptom of an underlying condition. They appear on the skin due to many reasons, including bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, infestations, environmental conditions, and systemic diseases. The first step in obtaining optimal medical treatment for a rash is proper identification. Allegheny Advanced Dermatology Center provides board-certified medical care for individuals with all types of rashes and skin eruptions.
Common Causes of Skin Rash
Some of the most common causes of skin rashes involve allergic reactions, medications, cosmetics, contact with irritants, and disease processes. Children are particularly prone to experience rashes as a result of illnesses. Amongst adults, irritant contact dermatitis is the most common type of rash and is a common reaction to exposure involving many types of foreign substances such as chemicals, dyes, nickel, and poisonous plants.
- Insect Bites
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
- Seborrheic Eczema/Dandruff
- Lupus Erythematosus
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Chickenpox
- Measles
- Scarlet Fever
- Hand, Foot, & Mouth Disease
- Fifth Disease
- Kawasaki Disease
- Impetigo
- Dermatitis
- Prurigo Nodularis
- Lichen Simplex
- Lichen Planus
- Cellulitis
- Folliculitis
- Tinea
- Necrobiosis Lipoidica
- Vasculitis
- Capillaritis
Rashes in Newborns and Infants
Newborns and infants commonly exhibit a wide variety of rashes. Approximately half of all newborns experience toxic erythema. This condition of pink to reddish scattered papules pustules, and marks appears within days of birth, does not appear to cause discomfort for the baby, and resolves on its own within a few days. Miliaria (heat rash) is another common rash that affects newborns within their first few weeks. The condition is caused by blocked sweat ducts, resulting in the appearance of thin-walled blisters on the forehead, trunk, and neck. Removal of harsh or tight clothing and maintaining a slightly cooler environment typically resolves the issue. Similarly, milia (tiny white spots/clogged pores) are very common and also resolve spontaneously. In some cases, the limbs may show evidence (blisters) of the infant sucking on these body parts while in the womb. These suckling blisters may also appear on the upper lip and do not require treatment.
Impetigo, Herpes, Scabies, Boils, and Syphilis Treatment
Any rash that appears on an infant should be examined promptly to obtain an accurate diagnosis. Boils, impetigo, syphilis, pseudomonas, hemophilus, listeria, malassezia, candida, herpes, varicella, scabies, and many other conditions that have accompanying rashes require rapid medical attention and treatment. These conditions may affect individuals of all ages.
The treatment for each particular type of rash may vary significantly. In most cases, the skin should be cleaned with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser. The skin should be gently patted dry. Do not apply any lotions to the area without first consulting our office. Contact Allegheny Advanced Dermatology Center to schedule an appointment. Call: (814) 944-7109.