Rash like a burn

Common Skin Rashes | Everyday Health

Do you have burning red skin or an itchy skin bump? Learn how to identify the cause of your skin rash.

By Chris Iliades, MDMedically Reviewed by Ross Radusky, MD

Reviewed: September 12, 2017

Medically Reviewed

A skin rash is an area of skin that has become swollen, inflamed, or irritated. Skin rashes can include skin bumps that look like pimples or sores; blotchy, scaly or red skin; and itchy or burning skin. Allergens, heat, and certain medical conditions (some more serious than others) can all cause skin reactions like these. Some skin rashes occur right away, while others take some time to develop. Some tend to occur on the face while others flare up on the arms, legs, or torso. Location, appearance, and color of a skin rash are all factors in determining the right diagnosis and the right treatment.

It’s important to note that the word “rash can mean a whole lot of things to a whole lot of different people,” says Whitney High, MD, the director of dermatopathology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine in Denver, and a spokesperson for the American Academy of Dermatology. “To a dermatologist, rash is an extremely broad term, ranging from connective tissue disease like lupus, to infections, to something very obvious” — for example, after using a new laundry detergent, you notice redness and irritation in your underarms; when you switch back to your old detergent, it goes away.

Some rashes may be relatively harmless and easy enough to take care of at home while others can be more problematic. So how do you know when to see your doctor for medical treatment? Isabela Jones, MD, a dermatologist at McLean Dermatology and Skincare Center in McLean, Virginia, recommends seeking medical attention if any of the following symptoms are also present:

• Fever, which “can indicate the presence of an infection, serious reaction to a medication, or rheumatologic disease,” says Dr. Jones.
• Blisters or open sores on the skin, mouth, or genitalia. “Some benign rashes, like poison ivy, can cause small blisters in the skin. However, many times blisters and open sores can indicate a serious or life-threatening condition that requires immediate intervention,” she notes.
• A rash that is painful and that is all over the body or spreading rapidly.
• A rash that has not improved with home care.

Dr. High notes that if you’re feeling well and the condition is not interfering with your quality of life, it’s fine to try reasonable home remedies, such as hydrocortisone cream. But if the irritation persists, however innocuous it may seem, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor. “Usually, if a rash has not improved within two weeks of starting home care, seeking medical care would be recommended,” says Jones. “Contacting a dermatologist or primary care provider is never a bad idea if someone is uncertain about how to treat the rash, or is generally worried about the appearance of the rash,” says Jones.

If you're suffering from a skin rash, check out the following images to see if it could be one of these. (Warning: A few of these rashes might be a little tough to look at.)

Chickenpox: A Skin Rash Made Up of Blisters

The virus known as varicella zoster, more commonly called chickenpox, creates a skin rash of itchy blisters on the face that spreads down to cover the chest, back, and the rest of the body. It's typically accompanied by fever and headache. Because a vaccine is available, chickenpox is less common now, though it still occurs, especially in children under age 12. Treatment is aimed at controlling symptoms, including fever, with non-aspirin pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), and soothing the itch with oatmeal baths. People with chickenpox should avoid young children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems, because chickenpox is highly contagious for those without prior exposure or who did not receive the vaccine.

Rubella: Small, Red Spots All Over the Skin

Another viral skin rash that affects children and young adults is rubella, or German measles. Rubella causes a rash of red skin spots that spreads like chickenpox from the face down. The skin rash can be itchy. Other symptoms include sore throat, fever, swollen glands, headache, and runny nose. There is a vaccine for rubella, and the Centers for Disease Control note that the virus has been eliminated from the United States, but it is still common in other countries. Rubella can be very dangerous for pregnant women because it can cause birth defects. Treatment includes rest and acetaminophen to relieve discomfort.

Hives: Sudden, Itchy Skin Bumps and Welts

Urticaria, also known as hives, is a skin rash that comes on suddenly and causes pale pink or red, itchy welts, which sometimes burn or sting. This skin condition can occur anywhere on the skin. Up to 20 percent of people may experience hives at least once in their lifetime. Hives may last for a few days or a few weeks and may be caused by an allergic reaction, typically to a food or medication or a recent cold or illness. The most common treatment is to avoid the cause and treat the symptoms with an antihistamine medication. Speak to a physician if an individual welt or hive lasts longer than 24 hours and is associated with any pain or fever.

Skin Rashes Caused by Allergic Reactions to Medication

There are two main types of drug-induced skin rashes. One is immediate — associated with hives, itching, and often with breathing difficulty, and tongue or lip swelling. If this happens, it is important to seek medical attention right away.

A drug rash can also occur several days to even weeks later. These may include skin bump eruptions, purple or red skin discoloration, or scaly and thickened areas of skin. This skin condition can occur anywhere on the skin or even inside the mouth. In rare cases, such as those accompanied by fever, pain, swelling, eye, mouth, or genitalia involvement, drug-induced rashes can be serious or even fatal, so check with your doctor. Treatment is to stop taking the drug and manage the symptoms with antihistamines or steroids.

Prickly Heat: A Skin Rash When Sweat Blocks Pores

Prickly heat, or heat rash, causes red skin that stings and itches. Small skin bumps may form as well. Heat rash is caused when sweat gets blocked in your pores. This is a common rash in babies, but can occur at any age. This skin condition tends to form where skin rubs against skin or clothing, such as in skin folds of the neck, breasts, groin, and underarms. The best treatment is to cool off, dry off, and reduce friction.

Intertrigo: An Itchy Rash in the Folds of the Body

Intertrigo is a skin condition that occurs in skin folds, under the breasts, on the inner thighs, under armpits, or under belly folds. Chafing causes a rash of red skin or brown skin that can get infected with yeast or bacteria and becomes raw. The skin rash may ooze and itch. This rash is more common in people who are overweight and in people with diabetes. Treatment involves keeping the areas dry, treating infections, and using antibiotic, antifungal, or steroid creams.

Rosacea: Redness and Inflammation on the Face

Rosacea is a common skin condition that occurs on the faces of adults. Symptoms of rosacea include redness of the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin. Small blood vessels may be seen on the surface of the red skin, along with skin bumps and pimples, though this is not related to acne breakouts. Rosacea typically only affects the face, though in some cases it appears on the neck, chest, ears, scalp, or even the eyes. The cause is unknown and there is no cure, although treatment with antibiotics can minimize symptoms.

Eczema: Red, Dry, Itchy Skin Anywhere on the Body

Another word for eczema is dermatitis, or inflammation of the skin. Eczema causes your skin to be itchy, cracked, red, and sometimes oozy. Scratching makes your skin red and inflamed. Eczema is not contagious, and common causes include detergents, soaps, wool, and synthetic fibers, dry skin, and stress. Eczema is common in babies and children, but can be seen at any age. The best treatment is avoiding substances that your skin is sensitive to and following a regular moisturizing skin care routine. Some topical and oral medications can help ease symptoms.

Contact Dermatitis: A Skin Rash Caused by Irritation or Allergy

Contact dermatitis can be caused by any allergy-causing substance or irritating substance that touches your skin. Irritating substances are more common and include solvents, pesticides, and detergents. Allergic contact dermatitis is commonly seen with poison ivy, cosmetics, certain metals such as nickel, and medications that are applied to the skin. The skin rash of contact dermatitis can appear as red skin, skin bumps, blisters, scales, crusts, or sores. Itching is common. Treatment of contact dermatitis includes washing the skin and using anti-itch lotions and steroids.

Impetigo: A Skin Rash Caused by Bacteria

Impetigo is a rash caused by a skin infection, usually traced to one of two bacteria, group A streptococcus or Staphylococcus aureus. This skin rash appears as brown, crusty sores or blisters around the nose or mouth area. The rash is very itchy and very contagious. Scratching the rash and then touching other areas of the body, or other people, will cause it to spread. Treatment of impetigo is with antibiotic creams or lotions, and for more severe cases, with oral antibiotics.

Psoriasis: A Disease Affecting the Growth Cycle of Skin Cells

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease that can cause patches of thick, dry skin covered with silvery scales. Known as plaques, these itchy, raised patches can appear anywhere on the body. An estimated 7.5 million Americans have psoriasis, which is thought to occur when a faulty immune system accelerates the growth cycle of skin cells. Up to a third of people with the condition also suffer from psoriatic arthritis, which causes joint pain and swelling. The exact cause of psoriasis is unclear, but genetics play a role. Treatments such as topical creams, light therapy, and medications can help manage psoriasis symptoms.

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.

We treat children according to the principles of evidence-based medicine: we choose only those diagnostic and treatment methods that have proven their effectiveness. We will never prescribe unnecessary examinations and medicines!

Make an appointment via WhatsApp

Prices Doctors

The first children's clinic of evidence-based medicine in Moscow

No unnecessary examinations and medicines! We will prescribe only what has proven effective and will help your child.

Treatment according to world standards

We treat children with the same quality as in the best medical centers in the world.

The best team of doctors in Fantasy!

Pediatricians and subspecialists Fantasy - highly experienced doctors, members of professional societies. Doctors constantly improve their qualifications, undergo internships abroad.

Ultimate treatment safety

We made pediatric medicine safe! All our staff work according to the most stringent international standards JCI

We have fun, like visiting best friends

Game room, cheerful animator, gifts after the reception. We try to make friends with the child and do everything to make the little patient feel comfortable with us.

You can make an appointment by calling or by filling out the form on the website

Other Dermatology services

• Consultation of a pediatric dermatologist

Manipulations, procedures, operations

• Removal of papillomas in children
• Removal of warts in a child
• Removal of molluscum contagiosum in a child
• Phototherapy for the treatment of skin diseases

Frequent calls

• Treatment of atopic dermatitis in children
• Seborrheic dermatitis in children
• Scabies in a child
• Pink lichen in a child
• Ringworm in children
• eczema in a child
• herpes in a child
• Acne disease (acne) in adolescents
• molluscum contagiosum
• Treatment of childhood psoriasis
• Allergic dermatitis
• contact dermatitis
• pyoderma in a child
• Warts in a child
• Fungal infections in children
• Treatment of vitiligo in children
• Dermatoscopy
• Skin mapping

Online payment

Documents online

Online services

Treatment of pruritus and allergic reactions

Treatment of pruritus and allergic reactions

Pruritus is a commonly reported dermatological symptom that can be caused by triggers such as sunburn, urticaria, dermatoses, superficial burns and insect bites. ^1.2

Allergic reactions result from exposure to allergens and include the following symptoms: ³

• Allergic rhinitis
• Conjunctivitis
• Urticaria
• Wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, cough

Common allergens include: ³

• Grass and tree pollen - an allergy to these is known as hay fever
• Food - especially nuts, fruits, seafood, eggs and cow's milk
• Medicines
• House dust mites
• Animal dander (small particles of wool or skin)

Treatment options for patients with pruritus

• Classical topical H1-receptor blockers (e.g. dimethindene maleate)

  Indications for use ⁸

  • For relief of itching and irritation associated with dermatoses, urticaria, insect bites, sun and superficial burns ⁴
  • Often used as first-line treatment for itching and irritation associated with urticaria, sunburn, superficial burns, or mosquito bites ⁵

  Mechanism of action

  • Topical H1 blockers fast ⁶ penetrate the skin and relieve itching and irritation by blocking the action of histamine on receptors ⁷

  Onset of action

  Fast (up to 30 minutes) ^{2. 8}

  Frequency and duration of use

  2-4 times a day, no more than 7 days ⁸

• Hydrocortisone (glucocorticosteroid for local use)

  Indications for use

  • Indicated for the treatment of inflammatory skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis/eczema and contact dermatitis ⁹
  • Various doses of glucocorticosteroids may be used for specific conditions ⁹

  Mechanism of action

  • Although the specific mechanism of action is unknown, the main effect of the drug is mediated by the effect on the nuclear receptors of glucocorticosteroids, which modulate gene transcription. ^9-11

  Onset Up to a few days for optimal treatment of skin inflammation

  Frequency and duration of use Not more than 7 days ¹⁰

Treatment options for patients with allergic reactions

• Classical H1-histamine receptor blockers for oral administration (for example, dimethindene maleate)

  Efficiency

  is shown in reactions caused by various allergens ^12–14

  The beginning of action

  Quick (within 30 minutes) ¹⁴

  Method of application and dose ¹⁴

  Drops for

  ,

  adults and children adults and children adults and children adults and children adults and children adults and children adults and children adults and children aged 12 years and older:

  • The recommended daily dose is 3-6 mg of dimethindene maleate per day in three divided doses
  • Fenistil, drops for oral administration, solution, 1 mg/ml: 20-40 drops three times a day.
  • Patients prone to drowsiness are advised to use 40 drops at bedtime and 20 drops in the morning.

  Children aged 1 to 12 years:

  • The recommended daily dose is 0.1 mg/kg body weight/day, i.e. 2 drops per kg of body weight per day in three doses per day.
  • 20 drops = 1 ml = 1 mg dimethindene maleate.

  Infants 1 month to 1 year:

  • Use in infants from 1 month to 1 year should be carried out only on prescription and if there are indications for the use of H1-histamine receptor blockers.
  • The recommended daily dose is 0.1 mg/kg body weight/day, i.e. 2 drops per kg of body weight per day in three doses per day.
  • 20 drops = 1 ml = 1 mg dimethindene maleate.
  • Fenistil drops should not be exposed to high temperatures. When administered to infants, the drops should be added to a bottle of warm baby food immediately before feeding.

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