Itchy red rash on arms

Red, Itchy Rash? | NIH News in Health

April 2012

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Get the Skinny on Dermatitis

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You’ve probably had a rash at some point or another, whether from poison ivy or the chickenpox or something more unusual. Why does your skin break out in red blotches like that? More important, is there anything you can do about it?

We often think of the skin as a barrier—it keeps the insides of our bodies in, and it keeps the outside world out. But our skin is also filled with special cells of the immune systemThe system that protects your body from invading viruses, bacteria and other microscopic threats.. These cells protect the skin and body against viruses, bacteria and other threats. Whenever these cells detect a suspicious substance, they begin a chain reaction in the skin that leads to inflammationHeat, swelling and redness caused by the body’s protective response to injury or infection. . The medical name for this reaction is dermatitis. But it’s more commonly known as a rash.

There are many different types of dermatitis, and each has a distinct set of treatments. Sometimes the skin’s immune cells react to something that directly touches the skin. Other times, the immune system flares in the skin because of a whole-body infection or illness.

The symptoms of these different types of rashes often overlap. “Itching is a common symptom for all these problems,” says Dr. Stephen I. Katz, director of NIH’s National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. Many rashes are red, painful, and irritated. Some types of rash can also lead to blisters or patches of raw skin. While most rashes clear up fairly quickly, others are long lasting and need to be cared for over long periods of time.

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a dry, red, itchy rash that affects up to 1 in 5 infants and young children. It often improves over time, although it can last into adulthood or start later in life. In this condition, the water-tight barrier between skin cells gets weak, which lets moisture out and other things in. That’s why people with atopic dermatitis have to moisturize their skin, and they’re more susceptible to skin infections.

Researchers have recently identified specific genesStretches of DNA, a substance you inherit from your parents, that define characteristics such as how likely you are to get certain diseases. that are involved in maintaining the skin barrier. People with certain versions of these genes are more likely to get atopic dermatitis.

“The skin is the outermost sentinel for fighting off bacteria and noxious agents,” says Katz. “If the barrier is broken somehow, you can become more allergic to things.”

A skin allergy, or allergic contact dermatitis, produces a red, itchy rash that sometimes comes with small blisters or bumps. The rash arises when the skin comes in contact with an allergen, a usually harmless substance that the immune system attacks. Allergens trigger allergic reactions. Allergens can come from certain soaps, creams and even pets.

Your immune system might not react the first time you encounter an allergen. But over time, your immune system can become sensitive to the substance. As a result, your next contact may lead to inflammation and an allergic rash.

“The most common form of dermatitis that is seen anywhere is an allergic contact dermatitis to nickel,” says Katz. “Why? Because of ear piercing.” Many inexpensive earrings are made of nickel, and over time, wearing nickel earrings can cause an allergic reaction to the metal.

Other common causes of allergic dermatitis are poison oak and poison ivy. The stems and leaves of these plants produce a chemical that’s likely to cause allergies. If you touch one of them, wash your skin as soon as possible. The chemical can also remain in clothing for a long time, so it’s important to wash any clothes or shoes—or even pets—that come into contact with these plants.

Mild cases of allergic contact dermatitis usually disappear after a few days or weeks. But if the rash persists, is extremely uncomfortable or occurs on the face, it’s important to see a physician. A doctor can prescribe medications that will tone down the immune reaction in the skin. This eases swelling and itching and will protect your eyes and face.

The immune cells of the skin can also produce rashes when they react to invading germs—like bacteria, fungi and viruses. Bacterial and viral infections within your body can cause your skin to break out in spots as well. The chickenpox virus, for example, can cause itchy spots in children. Years later, in older adults, the same virus may reappear as shingles, bringing a painful rash and high fever. Vaccines can prevent several rash-causing diseases, including chickenpox, shingles and measles.

Certain drugs, including antibiotics like amoxicillin, may also cause itchy skin rashes. If you’re allergic to a drug, a rash can be the first sign of a serious reaction. As with other allergies, a reaction to a drug may not occur the first time you take it. It could show up after several uses. Not all drug rashes are due to an allergy, however. If you break out in itchy spots after starting a new drug prescription, contact your doctor right away.

While most rashes get better with time, some can last a lifetime. Psoriasis, a condition where skin cells build up into thick red patches, tends to run in families. “It’s a complex genetic disease, in that there’s not one gene that causes psoriasis but many,” says Katz. Even though none of these genes alone has a great effect on the disease, knowing which genes are involved can help researchers design potential new treatments. Other long-term diseases that can produce rashes include autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, and some forms of cancer.

If you notice an itchy or painful rash on your skin, think twice before going to the drugstore and getting some cream if you don’t know the cause. “The creams that you buy can produce problems that make your original problem even worse,” Katz says. Because rashes can be caused by many different things—bacteria, viruses, drugs, allergies, genetic disorders, and even light—it’s important to figure out what kind of dermatitis you have.

“If you have any significant rash, you should see a dermatologist,” says Katz. A dermatologist, or skin doctor, is specially trained to figure out what’s causing a rash and help you get the right treatment.

Your skin is your protection. It’s not just the covering that keeps your body in; it’s also your first line of defense against germs and chemicals. Take care of your skin so your skin can take care of you.

Causes, 68 pictures of symptoms, and treatments

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A rash is defined as a widespread eruption of skin lesions. It is a very broad medical term. Rashes can vary in appearance greatly, and there are many potential causes. Because of the variety, there is also a wide range of treatments.

A rash can be local to just one small part of the body, or it can cover a large area.

Rashes come in many forms, and common causes include contact dermatitis, bodily infections, and allergic reactions to taking medication. They can be dry, moist, bumpy, smooth, cracked, or blistered; they can be painful, itch, and even change color.

Rashes affect millions of people across the world; some rashes may need no treatment and will clear up on their own, some can be treated at home; others might be a sign of something more serious.

There are a number of potential causes of rashes, including allergies, diseases, reactions, and medications. They can also be caused by bacterial, fungal, viral, or parasitic infections.

One of the most common causes of rashes – contact dermatitis – occurs when the skin has a reaction to something that it has touched. The skin may become red and inflamed, and the rash tends to be weepy and oozy. Common causes include:

• dyes in clothes
• beauty products
• poisonous plants, such as poison ivy and sumac
• chemicals, such as latex or rubber

Certain medications can cause rashes in some people; this may be a side effect or an allergic reaction. Also, some medications, including some antibiotics, cause photosensitivity – they make the individual more susceptible to sunlight. The photosensitivity reaction looks similar to sunburn.

Infections by bacteria, viruses, or fungi can also cause a rash. These rashes will vary depending on the type of infection. For instance, candidiasis, a common fungal infection, causes an itchy rash that generally appears in skin folds.

It is important to see a doctor if an infection is suspected.

An autoimmune condition occurs when an individual’s immune system begins to attack healthy tissue. There are many autoimmune diseases, some of which can produce rashes.For instance, lupus is a condition that affects a number of body systems, including the skin. It produces a butterfly-shaped rash on the face.

Share on PinterestA young girl with chickenpox.

Rashes come in many forms and develop for many reasons.

However, there are some basic measures that can speed up recovery and ease some of the discomfort:

• Use mild soap – not scented. These soaps are sometimes advertised for sensative skin, or for baby skin.
• Avoid washing with hot water – opt for warm.
• Try to allow the rash to breathe. Do not cover with a Band-Aid or bandage.
• Do not rub the rash dry, pat it.
• If the rash is dry, for instance, in eczema, use unscented moisturizers.
• Do not use any cosmetics or lotions that may be causing the rash – for instance, newly purchased items.
• Avoid scratching to lessen the risk of infection.
• Cortisone creams that can be purchased over-the-counter or online may ease itching.
• Calamine can relieve some rashes, e.g. poison ivy, chickenpox, and poison oak.

If the rash causes mild pain, acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be useful, but these are not a long-term solution – they will not treat the cause of the rash.

It is important to speak with a doctor before taking any medication. Compare brands before purchasing over-the-counter or online products, to ensure the product is suitable.

If a rash occurs with the following symptoms, it is important to visit a doctor:

• a sore throat
• pain in joints
• if you have had a recent animal or insect bite
• red streaks near the rash
• tender regions near the rash
• a large collection of pus

Although the majority of rashes are not a major cause for concern, anyone experiencing the following symptoms should go to the hospital straight away:

• quickly changing coloration on the skin
• difficulty breathing or feeling like the throat is closing up
• increasing pain or severe pain
• high fever
• confusion
• dizziness
• swelling of the face or extremities
• severe pain in the neck or head
• repeated vomiting or diarrhea

1.

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Many insects can cause a rash through a bite or sting. Although the reaction will vary depending on the person and the animal, symptoms often include:

• redness and rash
• itching
• pain
• swelling – either localized to the site of the bite or sting or more widespread

2. Flea bites

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Fleas are tiny jumping insects that can live in fabrics within the home. They have a very fast breeding cycle and can take over a home very rapidly.

• flea bites on humans often appear as red spots
• the skin can become irritated and painful
• secondary infections can be caused by scratching

3. Fifth disease

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Also known as erythema infectiosum and slapped cheek syndrome, fifth disease is caused by the parvovirus B19. One of the symptoms is a rash, which appears in three stages:

• A blotchy red rash on the cheeks with groups of red papules.
• After 4 days, a net of red marks may appear on the arms and trunk.
• In the third stage, the rash only appears after exposure to sunlight or heat.

4. Impetigo

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Impetigo is a highly contagious skin infection that most commonly affects children. The first sign is normally a patch of red, itchy skin. There are two types of impetigo:

• Non-bullous impetigo – red sores appear around the mouth and nose.
• Bullous impetigo – less common, generally affects children under 2. Medium to large blisters appear on the trunk, arms, and legs.

5. Shingles

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Shingles is an infection of an individual nerve. It is caused by the same virus as chickenpox – the varicella-zoster virus. Symptoms include:

• A rash similar to chickenpox in a band around the infected nerve.
• Blisters can merge producing a solid red band.
• Rash is often painful.

6. Scabies

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Scabies is a skin condition caused by a microscopic mite. It is very contagious and spreads easily through person-to-person contact. Symptoms include:

• Intense itching – often worse at night.
• Rash – appears in lines as the mite burrows. Blisters are sometimes present.
• Sores – may appear where the rash has been scratched.

7. Eczema

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Eczema is one of the most common skin conditions. It often first develops in childhood. Symptoms depend on the type of eczema and on the age of the individual but they often include:

• dry scaly patches on the skin
• intensely itchy rash
• cracked and rough skin

8. Hay fever

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Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, is an allergic response to pollen. Symptoms can be similar to those of a common cold, such as:

• runny nose
• watery eyes
• sneezing

Hay fever can also cause a rash, similar to hives. These will appear as itchy red patches or eruptions on the skin.

9. Scarlet fever

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Scarlet fever is a disease caused by a toxin released by a bacteria – Streptococcus pyogenes – the same bacteria that is responsible for Strep throat. Symptoms include a sore throat, rash, and fever. The rash has the following characteristics:

• red blotches
• blotches turn to fine pink-red rash like sunburn
• skin feels rough

10. Rheumatic fever

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Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory reaction to a streptococcal infection, such as Strep throat. It most commonly affects children aged 5-15. Symptoms include:

• small painless bumps under skin
• red skin rash
• swollen tonsils

11. Mono (mononucleosis)

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Mono, or mononucleosis, is caused by a virus. It is rarely serious, but symptoms can include:

• a pink, measle-like rash
• body aches
• high fevers

12. Ringworm

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Ringworm, despite its name, is caused by a fungus. The fungal infection affects the top layer of the skin, scalp, and nails. Symptoms vary depending on the site of the infection, but can include:

• itchy, red rash in rings – sometimes slightly raised
• small patches of scaly skin
• hair near patches breaks away

13. Measles

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Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by the rubeola virus. Symptoms include:

• a reddish-brown rash
• small grayish-white spots with bluish-white centers in the mouth
• dry cough

14. Yeast infection (candidiasis)

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Candidiasis is a common fungal infection of the genitals. It affects both sexes, but more commonly, women. Symptoms include:

• rash
• pain and soreness in the genital area
• itching, burning, and irritation

15. Stasis dermatitis

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Stasis dermatitis is also known as varicose eczema. It develops due to poor circulation and most commonly affects the lower legs. Symptoms include:

• varicose veins covered in itchy, dry skin
• red, swollen, painful skin, which may weep or crust over
• heavy, aching legs after standing for some time

16. German measles

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Also known as rubella, German measles are an infection caused by the rubella virus. Symptoms include:

• rash – less bright than measles, often begins on the face
• inflamed, red eyes
• stuffy nose

17. Sepsis

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Sepsis, often called blood poisoning, is a medical emergency. It is the result of a wide scale immune response to an infection. Symptoms vary, but can include:

• a rash that does not fade under pressure
• fever
• increased heart rate

18. West Nile virus

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West Nile virus is an infection spread by mosquitos. Often, there are no symptoms, but if they do occur, they can include:

• raised and/or flat, pink skin rash on the trunk, arms, or legs
• excessive sweating
• vomiting

19.

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Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected tick. The symptoms include an erythema migrans rash that often appears in the early stages of the disease.

• The rash begins as a small red area that may be warm to the touch but not itchy.
• The center loses color, giving it a bull’s-eye appearance.
• The rash does not necessarily appear at the site of the tick bite.

20. Cellulitis

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Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the deep layer of skin – the dermis. It normally occurs when bacteria enter through a break in the skin. Symptoms include:

• Skin sores or rash that starts suddenly and grows quickly.
• Warm skin around the redness.
• Fever and fatigue.

21. MRSA

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MRSA (methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus) is a contagious bacterial infection that is resistant to a range of antibiotics. This makes it difficult to treat. Symptoms include:

• rash
• swelling and tenderness in the affected part of the body
• wounds that do not heal

Photo credit: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)

22. Chickenpox

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Chickenpox is an infection by the varicella zoster virus. It is unpleasant, but most people recover within a couple of weeks. Symptoms include:

• An itchy rash of small red spots first appears on the face and trunk, and then spreads across the body.
• Spots then develop blisters on top.
• After 48 hours, the blisters cloud and start to dry out.

23. Lupus

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Lupus is an autoimmune disease, meaning that the immune system attacks healthy tissue. Symptoms vary widely from person to person, but can include:

• Butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and the bridge of the nose.
• Flaky red spots or a purple, scaly rash on the face, neck, or arms.
• Skin sensitivity to the sun.

24. Toxic shock syndrome

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Toxic shock syndrome is a rare condition sparked by a bacterial infection. It develops quickly and can be life-threatening. All people who have toxic shock syndrome have fever and a rash with the following characteristics:

• looks similar to sunburn and covers most of the body
• flat not raised
• turns white when pressed

25. Acute HIV infection

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During the first stages of HIV, levels of the virus in the blood are very high because the immune system has not yet started tackling the infection. Early symptoms include a rash with the following features:

• mostly affects the upper part of the body
• flat or barely raised small red dots
• not generally itchy

26. Hand, foot, and mouth

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Hand, foot, and mouth is a childhood illness resulting from a viral infection. Symptoms include:

• Rash – flat, non-itchy red blisters on the hands and soles of the feet.
• Loss of appetite.
• Ulcers on the throat, tongue, and mouth.

Image credit: KlatschmohnAcker

27. Acrodermatitis

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Acrodermatitis, a type of pustular psoriasis, is also known as Gianotti-Crosti syndrome. It is associated with viral infections. Symptoms include:

• itchy purple or red blisters
• swollen lymph nodes
• bloated abdomen

28. Hookworm

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Hookworm is a common intestinal parasite. It can cause a range of complications. Symptoms include:

• Skin rash in one particular area that is red, itchy, and raised.
• Breathing complications.
• Extreme tiredness.

29. Kawasaki disease

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Kawasaki’s disease is a rare syndrome that affects children. It is characterized by an inflammation of the walls of the arteries throughout the body. Symptoms include:

• A rash on the legs, arms, and torso and between the genitals and anus.
• A rash on the soles of the feet and palms of the hand, sometimes with peeling skin.
• Swollen, chapped, and dry lips.

30. Syphilis

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Syphilis is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection. The disease is treatable, but will not go away on its own. Symptoms vary depending on the stage of the disease and include:

• Initially – painless, firm, and round syphilitic sores (chancres).
• Later – non-itchy red/brown rash that starts on the trunk and spreads across the body.
• Oral, anal, and genital wart-like sores.

31. Typhoid

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Typhoid is caused by a bacterial infection. It is spread quickly by contact with the feces of an infected person. If untreated, 25 percent of cases end in death. Symptoms can include:

• Rash – rose-colored spots, especially on the neck and abdomen.
• Fever – up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation.

Image credit: Charles N. Farmer, CDC/ Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, 1964

32. Dengue fever

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Dengue fever, also called breakbone fever, is transmitted by mosquitos. The condition ranges from mild to severe. Symptoms can include:

• Initially a flat, red rash appears over most of the body.
• Later, a secondary rash appears, similar to measles.
• Severe joint and muscle aches.

Image credit: calliopejen, 2009

33. Ebola

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Ebola is a serious viral disease; it spreads rapidly through families and friends and can often be fatal. Often, a rash is one of the symptoms:

• Initially, a short-lived mild rash may be present.
• Rashes begin to peel and look like sunburn.
• Later in the disease, the rash may turn to abscesses.

34. SARS

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Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a contagious and sometimes fatal respiratory illness. Symptoms can include:

• skin rash
• chills
• stiff muscles

35. Contact dermatitis

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Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin comes in contact with an irritant; it is relatively common, and can be unpleasant. Symptoms include:

• red, flaky rash that stings
• blistered skin
• burning sensation
• cracked skin

36. Fungal infection

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Although some fungi live naturally on the human body, sometimes, they can overtake. Symptoms depend on where the infection strikes, but can include:

• a red rash with a circular shape and raised edges
• cracking, flaking, or dry peeling of the skin in the infected area
• chafing, irritation, itching, or burning in the infected area

37. Drug allergy

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Certain people have allergic reactions to prescribed drugs. The body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the medication as if it were a pathogen. Symptoms vary depending on the individual and the drug, but can include:

• Rash, including hives
• Itchy skin or eyes
• Swelling

38. Atypical pneumonia

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Also called walking pneumonia, atypical pneumonia is less severe than the typical form. Symptoms can include:

• rashes (uncommon)
• weakness and fatigue
• chest pain, especially when breathing deeply

39. Erysipelas

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Erysipelas is a skin infection. It is a form of cellulitis, however, unlike cellulitis, it only affects the upper layers of the skin, rather than deeper tissue. The skin in a particular area becomes:

• swollen, red, and shiny
• tender and warm to the touch
• red streaks above the affected area

Image credit: CDC/Dr. Thomas F. Sellers/Emory University

40. Reye’s syndrome

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Reye’s syndrome is rare and most commonly occurs in children. It can cause serious damage to the body’s organs, particularly the brain and liver (image opposite shows fat accumulation in liver cells). Early symptoms include:

• Rash on the palms of the hands and feet.
• Repeated, heavy vomiting.
• Lethargy, confusion, and headaches.

41. Addisonian crisis

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Addisonian crisis – also known as an adrenal crisis and acute adrenal insufficiency – is a rare and potentially fatal condition where the adrenal glands stop working correctly. Symptoms include:

• skin reactions, including rashes
• low blood pressure
• fever, chills, and sweating

42. Chemical burns

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Chemical burns are relatively common; they can occur when a person comes in direct contact with a chemical or its fumes. Symptoms vary but can include:

• skin that appears black or dead
• irritation, burning, or redness in the affected area
• numbness and pain

43.

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Colorado tick fever, also known as mountain tick fever and American tick fever is a viral infection that develops after a bite from a Rocky Mountain wood tick. Symptoms can include:

• a flat or pimply rash
• skin or muscle pain
• fever

44. Accidental poisoning by soap products

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Some soap products contain strong chemicals. If they are ingested or inhaled, they can cause serious damage. Symptoms can include:

• chemical burns on the skin
• swelling of the throat, lips, and tongue
• difficulty breathing

45. Adult-onset Still’s disease

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Adult-onset Still’s disease is a rare inflammatory disorder that usually affects people in their 30s. Symptoms include:

• A pink rash, mostly affecting the chest and thighs, which tends to fade quickly.
• Joint and muscle pain, commonly affecting the knees, wrists, and ankles.
• Enlarged spleen, liver, or lymph nodes.

46. Juvenile idiopathic arthritis

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Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the most common form of arthritis in children; it used to be called juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms vary depending on the subtype, but can include:

• fleeting rashes
• a scaly psoriasis-like rash
• spiking fever

47. Histoplasmosis

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Histoplasmosis is a fungal infection of the lungs. Sometimes, it presents no symptoms, but in other cases, it produces pneumonia-like symptoms; these include:

• rash
• chest pain
• red bumps on lower legs

48. Dermatomyositis

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Dermatomyositis is a medical condition that causes muscle weakness and rashes. The rash may be red and patchy or bluish-purple in color; it appears in a number of places, including:

• shoulders and upper back
• knuckles
• palms and fingers
• around the eyes

49.

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People being treated for certain cancers may sometimes undergo a stem cell transplant; in some cases, the donor cells attack the recipient’s healthy cells instead of the cancer cells. Symptoms can include:

• Rashes affecting the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, ears, or face.
• Other skin changes, such as drying, scaling, scarring, hardening, and darkening.
• Hair loss.

50. Icthyosis vulgaris

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Ichthyosis vulgaris is a hereditary skin condition that often begins in childhood. It is caused by a mutation in the gene that codes for the protein filaggrin; features include:

• The skin’s surface becomes dry, thick, and scaly.
• The dryness is often accompanied by fine, white, or skin-colored scales.
• It commonly affects the elbows, shins, face, scalp, and torso.

51. Pemphigoid

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Pemphigoid is a group of rare autoimmune conditions that primarily cause rashes and skin blistering; there are three main types:

• Bullous pemphigoid – blistering on the lower torso, groin, armpits, inner thighs, soles, and palms.
• Cicatricial pemphigoid – mostly affects mucous membranes.
• Pemphigoid gestationis – develops during pregnancy and mostly affects the upper body.

52. Sarcoidosis

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Sarcoidosis is a condition involving the growth of persistent or inappropriate granulomas or clumps of inflammatory cells. Symptoms include:

• Erythema nodosum – a raised red rash on the lower extremities.
• Nodules or growths under the skin, especially around scar tissue.
• Skin discoloration.

53. Phenylketonuria

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Phenylketonuria is a genetic condition that affects how phenylalanine is broken down by the body. It affects around 1 in 10,000 babies in the U.S. If left untreated, phenylalanine builds up, causing:

• skin rashes, such as eczema
• lighter skin and eyes due to abnormal levels of melanin
• seizures

54. Porphyria

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Porphyria refers to a group of genetic disorders that can affect the nervous system or the skin; symptoms are varied but can include:

• redness and swelling on the skin
• burning pain on the skin
• changes in skin pigmentation

55.

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Dermatitis neglecta is a skin disorder that arises when an individual does not clean themselves sufficiently. It can look similar to other allergic conditions. Symptoms include patches of scaly skin that are collections of:

• sweat and moisture
• dirt
• bacteria and other germs

Image credit: Dr. Piotr Brzezinski Ph.D.

56. Heliotrope rash

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Heliotrope rash is often the first noticeable symptom of an inflammatory muscle disease called dermatomyositis. The rash often includes:

• raised and bumpy skin
• red patches
• skin looks dry and irritated

Image credit: Elizabeth M. Dugan, Adam M. Huber, Frederick W. Miller, Lisa G. Rider, 2010.

57. Uric acid skin rash

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A person may develop a rash when high levels of uric acid in the blood cause crystals to form and accumulate in and around a joint. This can also lead to gout. Symptoms include:

• A dotted rash on the surface of the skin
• Redness, tenderness, and swelling of the joints
• Prolonged joint pain for weeks following the reaction

Image credit: WNT.

1. Amoxicillin reaction

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Some people are allergic to the antibiotic amoxicillin. If a person experiences any of the following symptoms they should stop taking it and report to their doctor:

• skin rash
• blotchy skin
• itchiness

Image credit: Skoch4, 2008.

2. Erythema ab igne (hot bottle rash)

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Erythema ab igne is caused by overexposure to heat. Regularly using hot water bottles, or other forms of heat, to relieve pain from muscle or joint damage may lead to developing this skin condition.

Image credit: James Heilman, MD, 2010.

3. Ketoconazole shampoo reaction

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Applying ketoconazole shampoo to the scalp can help reduce skin conditions such as dandruff and psoriasis. If a person has an allergic reaction to ketoconazole their symptoms may include:

• enflamed rash covering the area that came into contact with the shampoo
• itchiness

Image credit: Niels Olson, 2010.

4. Beard dye reaction

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Some people are allergic to chemicals found in beard or hair coloring dye. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include:

• dry, flaky skin
• redness
• itchiness

Image credit: Yngve Roennike, 2016.

5. Infant milk rash

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Breastfed babies may develop a rash if they are allergic to a food group that their mother is consuming. Symptoms of a food allergy can include:

• hives
• itchiness
• coughing
• diarrhea

6. Urticaria (nettle rash)

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A person with urticaria will likely develop a raised, itchy rash that is usually triggered by an allergen. Common symptoms of urticaria include:

• pink wheals (swellings) on the skin
• redness
• extreme itchiness

7.

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A person with a grass allergy may develop hay fever symptoms when coming into contact with grass. It is also common to experience:

• small red dots on the skin
• hives
• itchiness

Image credit: Carolyn, 2009.

8. Poison ivy reaction

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Coming into contact with poison ivy plant oil can lead to a person developing contact dermatitis. Symptoms of this include:

• small bumps or blisters on the skin
• redness
• itchiness

Image credit: CDC/ Richard S. Hibbits, 1971.

9. Smallpox vaccination reaction

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Following a vaccination, some people may develop the following symptoms:

• small bumps
• redness
• itchiness
• fever

Image credit: CDC/ Arthur E. Kaye, 1969.

10. Hyposensitization therapy reaction

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Hyposensitization therapy is used to treat allergic disease. While receiving the course of injections, a person may experience the following symptoms:

• redness
• itchiness

Image credit: Bionerd, 2008.

11. Euproctis chrysorrhoea (brown-tail moth) reaction

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A person may develop a rash after touching a brown-tail moth. This is caused by a reaction to the toxins found in the moth’s hairs. Symptoms include:

• red, blotchy skin
• raised bumps

Image credit: B kimmel, 2010.

Allergic rash - urticaria | Symptoms

Drugs, contrast agents (used in imaging studies such as computed tomography)
Signs: Allergic rash that begins within 48 hours after using the drug.

Emotional and physical stimuli (stress and anxiety, cold, exercise, skin pressure, heat, sunlight, sweating)
Signs: Allergic rash, which usually begins within seconds or minutes after contact with an irritant; an allergic rash that starts within 4 to 6 hours and affects only the area of ​​skin where pressure has been applied, or an allergic rash that only affects the area of ​​skin exposed to sunlight.

Food (food allergens)
Signs: Allergic rash that starts within minutes or hours of consumption.

Infections (bacterial, parasitic, viral)
Signs: Fever, chills, and fatigue. Specific infection symptoms, particularly for parasitic infections, recent travel to a developing country.

Insect bites or burns
Signs: Allergic rash that starts within seconds or minutes of an insect bite or burn.

Serum sickness
Signs: Allergic rash that begins within 7 to 10 days after an injection of a blood product (as in a transfusion), a drug derived from the blood of animals (used to treat venomous snake and spider bites). May be accompanied by fever, joint pain, swollen lymph nodes, and abdominal pain.

Contact allergens (latex, animal saliva or dander, dust, pollen or mold)
Signs: An allergic rash that begins within minutes or hours of contact.

Transfusion reactions
Signs: Allergic rash that usually starts within minutes of a blood product transfusion.

Systemic lupus erythematosus
Signs: Various symptoms depending on the autoimmune disease. With systemic lupus erythematosus, symptoms may include fever, fatigue, headache, joint pain and swelling, pain when breathing, and mouth ulcers.

Sjögren's syndrome
Signs: Dry eyes and dry mouth.

Urticarial vasculitis
Signs: An allergic rash that may be painful but not itchy. Usually lasts more than 24 hours. Does not whiten (brighten) when pressure is applied. May be accompanied by the formation of small blisters and red-violet spots (purpura).

Cancer (digestive or lung or lymphoma)
Signs: Weight loss, night sweats, abdominal pain, cough (sometimes with blood), jaundice, swollen lymph nodes, or a combination of these symptoms.

Chronic idiopathic allergic rash
Signs: Allergic rash that occurs almost daily and itching that lasts for 6 weeks with no apparent cause.

Endocrine disorders (thyroid disease or elevated progesterone)
Signs: For thyroid disorders: difficulty in tolerating heat or cold, slow or fast heart rate, and shaking (tremor) or slowness. Occurs in women who take birth control pills, undergo hormone therapy, or who have an allergic rash that appears before the onset of the menstrual period and disappears after it ends.

Mastocytosis
Signs: Small red bumps that turn into an allergic rash when touched. Sometimes abdominal pain, mild flushing, and recurring headaches.

Rash COVID-19 | A rash can be a symptom of coronavirus

The onset of COVID-19 can be associated with the appearance of various types of skin lesions. They resemble papules, nodules, vesicles, excoriations (abrasions), scales, ulcers, some are in the form of spots, indurations or nets. The rash can occur in people who are asymptomatic with COVID-19. In 21% of patients, dermatosis was the only symptom of SARS-CoV-2 infection. At the same time, 17% of patients reported skin rash as the first manifestation of the disease.

The incidence of skin symptoms of COVID-19 is difficult to determine. There is also no known relationship between some skin symptoms and disease severity. In addition, it cannot be ruled out that in some patients, skin lesions may be a manifestation of a reaction to multiple treatments for COVID-19.

Contents:

1. Covid-19 rash - where does it appear?‎

2. What does a COVID-19 rash look like? coronavirus - when does it occur and how long does it last?‎

5. Rash as a manifestation of childhood inflammatory multisystem syndrome (PIMS) after COVID-19 in children

6. "Coronavirus fingers"

7. COVID-19 and chickenpox - how is the rash different?

8. Treating COVID-19 rash

Skin lesions are often the body's response to viral infections. However, in the case of COVID-19, doctors are surprised by the variety of skin rashes, the time of their appearance and location.

Skin lesions associated with COVID-19 occur on various parts of the body, such as around the mouth, trunk, limbs, legs and arms. They are not always accompanied by itching.

The rashes associated with Covid-19 are varied and similar to skin lesions associated with other viral diseases, according to a study conducted by experts in Spain. They noted that skin changes did not correlate with the severity of the infection: some were accompanied by asymptomatic COVID-19, others - severe forms of infection.

Five types of rash were noted:

• Irregular frostbite-like patches on the arms and legs, sometimes accompanied by soreness and itching. Mostly encountered in young patients with a mild course of the disease, appeared in the later stages and lasted about 12 days. Registered in 19% of cases.

• Focal eruption in the form of small vesicles, which can cause itching, located on the body and upper and lower limbs. Occurs at the time of the onset of any other symptoms and occurs at 9% of cases in middle-aged patients; kept for 10 days.

• Urticaria-like patchy eruption, white or pink, often itchy. They were noted in 19% of cases, mainly on the body, but also happened on the palms.

• Maculopapular rash in the form of small flat or raised vesicles, which was observed in 47% of cases. These rashes persisted for about a week and appeared simultaneously with other symptoms, but most often accompanied by a severe course of the disease.

• The appearance of a vascular red-blue network or signs of skin necrosis on the skin was observed in 6% of patients, mostly elderly with a severe course of the disease.

At the same time, experts note that the rash can have a different origin, and it is difficult to classify it without having the appropriate experience and knowledge.

In case of any skin symptoms, Medicover dermatologists with many years of experience and extensive experience in diagnosing various skin lesions are always ready to help you!

Diagnosis of dermatological changes caused by COVID-19 consists primarily in the exclusion of other possible causes of rashes, such as, for example, allergies.

This may require a series of studies to determine whether the rash is related to SARS-CoV-2 infection, or is a reaction to certain medications, or is a manifestation of infection by other pathogens.

If finger pressure on purple-red skin lesions does not cause them to disappear, this is an alarm signal that indicates the need to seek medical attention in order to rule out infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

In Medicover clinics you can get professional advice from a dermatologist and undergo all the necessary examinations to establish an accurate diagnosis, as well as get advice on effective treatment in accordance with modern international clinical guidelines.

The first symptoms of COVID-19 can occur approximately 5-6 days after infection, sometimes this period is extended up to 14 days. However, a rash can be both the first symptom and the only sign of COVID-19. .

Depending on the type of skin lesions and their severity, they last from several days to several weeks.

Skin rash may be accompanied by other systemic symptoms associated with COVID-19. These include:

• fever

• Permanent cough

• shortness of breath, breathing problems,

• Fatigue

• Chill

• Dizziness

• Loss of smell and taste.

Viral diseases are a common cause of skin lesions in children. A rash caused by SARS-Cov-2 may appear on a child's skin up to 2-4 weeks after infection and indicate the development of childhood inflammatory multisystem syndrome associated with SARS-CoV-2.

PIMS with multiform inflammatory syndrome in children sometimes occurs after COVID-19 infection, sometimes even after asymptomatic infection. PIMS most commonly occurs in schoolchildren around the age of 9years.

In the case of children, skin lesions caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection may appear as reddish papules, resembling other viral exanthems. Papules may appear on the face and back, and within 3-5 days they disappear spontaneously.

Any rash in children should be consulted with a pediatrician. Until an accurate diagnosis is established and the connection with COVID-19 is excluded, children should not come into contact with other people, especially the elderly, who are prone to a severe course of coronavirus infection up to death.

Skin lesions in the form of so-called "coronavirus fingers" are more often diagnosed in young people, adolescents and children. They take the form of red spots, vesicles and even ulcers, accompanied by swelling of the skin of the fingers and interdigital spaces.

Papulo-vesicular eruptions in COVID-19 and chickenpox are very similar to each other. They differ in the age of patients and localization of skin lesions.

In SARS-CoV-2 infection, skin lesions are more common in adults with a mean age of 60 years. However, one of the main clinical features is the localization of lesions in the trunk area, the elements are diffuse in nature, they are characterized by the absence of itching.

The rash appears 3 days after the onset of symptoms of COVID-19 and spontaneously disappears after 8 days without leaving marks, while with chickenpox the rash can be biphasic and last up to 2 weeks.

Rash due to SARS-CoV-2 infection does not require specific medical procedures. Clinical data show that it is enough to simply observe its course and apply symptomatic treatment if necessary. Useful antihistamines that relieve itching and swelling of the skin. Mild patients can use them at home.

In case of serious and significant skin lesions, systemic treatment with corticosteroids under medical supervision is recommended.

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