Figure 6 Serpiginous Tracts Of Cutaneous Larva Migrans On The Proximal Lower Extremity
The cutaneous infestation is self-limiting in that humans are dead-end hosts. Most eruptions spontaneously resolve in two to eight weeks.28 Treatment with anthelmintics can shorten the course of the disease. Early, localized lesions can be treated with topical thiabendazole. Widespread disease is treated with oral albendazole or invermectin.27
Porokeratosis of Mibelli
Porokeratosis of Mibelli is a rare, genetically inherited disorder of epidermal keratinization that arises during childhood or adolescence.29 Lesions begin as small, skin- to brown-colored papules that enlarge over the course of years, forming plaques with raised, ridge-like borders and atrophic, hyper- or hypopigmented centers.30 Lesions are asymptomatic, measuring up to several centimeters in diameter and having a predilection for the hands, fingers, feet, and ankles.31 When multiple lesions are present, they are almost always unilateral and localized.30
What Causes Skin Lesions
The most common cause of a skin lesion is an infection on or in the skin.
One example is a wart. The human papillomavirus , which causes warts, is passed from one person to another through direct skin-to-skin contact. The herpes simplex virus, which causes both cold sores and genital herpes, is also passed through direct contact.
A systemic infection, which is an infection that occurs throughout your body, can cause skin lesions all over your body. Examples include chickenpox and shingles. MRSA and cellulitis are two potentially life threatening infections that involve skin lesions.
Some skin lesions, such as moles and freckles, are hereditary. Birthmarks are lesions that exist at the time of birth.
Others can be the result of an allergic reaction, such as allergic eczema and contact dermatitis. Some conditions, such as poor circulation or diabetes, cause skin sensitivity that can lead to lesions.
Birthmarks are primary skin lesions, as are moles and acne. Other types include the following.
How Is Ringworm Treated
Ringworm can be treated with antifungal creams containing clotrimazole , miconazole , ketoconazole , and terbinafine . In cases of severe or resistant infections on the scalp or nails, doctors may prescribe oral medicines such as terbinafine, itraconazole , griseofulvin, fluconazole , ciclopirox, or naftifine.
You May Like: The Best Lotion For Dry Skin
Causes And Types Of Raised Skin Bumps
The most common causes of raised skin bumps are harmless and do not require medical treatment unless you have discomfort. Here are some of the possible reasons for raised skin bumps:
Less commonly, raised skin bumps are caused by more serious conditions that require treatment. Certain bacterial and viral infections cause bumps and will only get worse if they go undiagnosed and untreated. These serious conditions include:
- chickenpox, a common childhood virus characterized by red, itchy bumps that form all over the body
- impetigo, a bacterial skin infection common in young children that is highly contagious and results in reddish blisters that ooze and develop a honey-colored crust
- MRSA infection, an illness triggered by a staph bacteria that commonly lives on the skin, causing a swollen, painful bump with a white center
- scabies, a skin infestation caused by a tiny mite called Sarcoptes scabiei, producing an itchy, pimple-like rash
Other types of raised skin bumps can be caused by skin cancer. There are several types of skin cancer, all requiring medical management and treatment:
Most skin bumps are harmless and arent cause for concern. However, you should see your doctor if:
- skin bumps change or worsen in appearance, or last for a long time
- you are in pain or they cause discomfort
- you dont know the cause of the bumps
- you suspect you have an infection or skin cancer
The Healthline FindCare tool can provide options in your area if you dont already have a doctor.
What Are The Complications Of A Skin Rash
Theyre bothersome and unsightly, but skin rashes usually respond well to treatment. They rarely cause serious problems. Potential issues include:
- Anaphylaxis: A severe allergic reaction can cause a skin rash and a life-threatening condition called anaphylaxis. Extreme swelling from anaphylaxis can close air passages. People in anaphylaxis need an immediate epinephrine injection to counteract this allergic response. If youve ever felt your throat or mouth swelling when you get a rash, talk to your healthcare provider about whether you need to carry an EpiPen®.
- Infection: Scratching an itchy rash can break open the skin, allowing germs to get in. Scratching puts you at risk for developing a bacterial skin infection.
Also Check: How Can You Get Skin Cancer From The Sun
Figure 10 Sharply Demarcated Scaly Patch Of Seborrheic Dermatitis Affecting The Presternal Area
Seborrheic dermatitis may closely resemble tinea or psoriasis, especially in the groin. Distribution is helpful in distinguishing seborrheic dermatitis from tinea. When seborrheic dermatitis is present on the face, lesions are remarkably symmetric, mostly affecting the forehead, eyebrows, and retroauricular areas.36 When present in large folds, seborrheic dermatitis tends to be centered along the crease, whereas tinea is less often as symmetric.36 In addition, patches and plaques of seborrheic dermatitis typically are more numerous and appear greasier than lesions of tinea. Plaques of psoriasis are associated with a heavier scale that, unlike seborrheic dermatitis, bleeds when removed.32
Treatment consists of imidazoles, mainly ketoconazole, as a shampoo when present on the scalp or cream when present on the face and body.36 Topical steroids work quickly and are effective but should be limited because of the risk of steroid rosacea.32 Once cleared, daily maintenance therapy is important to prevent relapse.
Erythema Multiforme
When To See A Healthcare Provider
Red spots on your skin can have many causes and you may not be able to figure out why you have them without seeing a provider. They can look at the appearance and severity of the rash, your medical history, and any underlying conditions you have.
In general, red flag symptoms along with red spots on your skin include:
- Severe pain or swelling
- Pus oozing from the rash
If you have red spots on your skin and “red flag symptoms,” seek medical care right away.
Don’t Miss: Does Merkel Cell Carcinoma Bleed
Home Remedies And Otc Products
Ringworm:
- You may begin by using OTC antifungal creams twice a day for seven to 10 days.
- Don’t cover the ringworm rash with a bandage.
- Keep the area clean and dry.
Eczema, psoriasis, and pityriasis rosacea:
- Keep the skin hydrated with OTC fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, emollient-rich lotion after bathing.
- Bathe in lukewarm water and use a mild cleanser rather than soap.
- Wear loose, non-scratchy clothing.
- A wet wrap treatment in which you apply petroleum jelly and wrap the area in plastic wrap or a wet bandage may provide relief.
- An oatmeal bath may also help, adding finely ground oatmeal powder or a commercial oatmeal bath product to your bath.
- Products that contain coal tar can be useful.
- You may also use OTC hydrocortisone cream for these conditions, as well as granuloma annulare.
- If itching is bothersome, applying a cool compress may help.
When To See A Healthcare Professional About Rashes
If you dont already have a physician, you can use the Healthline FindCare tool to find a professional near you.
Go to the hospital immediately if you experience a rash along with any of the following symptoms:
- increasing pain or discoloration in the rash area
- tightness or itchiness in the throat
- difficulty breathing
- swelling of the face or limbs
- fever of 100.4°F or higher
- severe head or neck pain
- repeated vomiting or diarrhea
Your healthcare professional may also:
- take your temperature
- order tests, such as an allergy test or complete blood count
- perform a skin biopsy, which involves taking a small sample of skin tissue for analysis
- refer you to a specialist, such as a dermatologist, for further evaluation
Your healthcare professional may also prescribe medication or medicated lotion to relieve your rash. Most people can treat their rashes effectively with medical treatments and home care.
Follow these tips if you have a rash:
- Use home remedies to soothe mild contact rashes.
- Identify potential triggers for the rash and avoid them as much as possible.
- Carefully follow any treatments your doctor prescribes. Speak with a healthcare professional if your rash persists or gets worse despite treatment.
Healthline and our partners may receive a portion of revenues if you make a purchase using a link above.
Recommended Reading: Does Insurance Cover Skin Removal After Weight Loss
How Is Tinea Versicolor Treated
Over-the-counter antifungal creams, lotions, or shampoos may clear up a mild infection. More serious infections may need prescription medicine, either applied to the skin or taken as a pill or syrup.
Treatment usually takes 12 weeks. Sometimes the infection comes back. If that happens, treatment is repeated.
Who Might Get A Skin Rash
Everyone from infants to senior citizens can get skin rashes. Infants are prone to diaper rash and cradle cap. Children are prone to atopic dermatitis and catch rash-inducing viruses, such as fifth disease. And older kids or adults can develop contact dermatitis as skin becomes sensitive to allergens or irritants over time.
You May Like: What Is Invasive Lobular Carcinoma
Red Spots And Skin Cancer
Skin cancer, from melanoma to basal cell carcinoma, may also appear in the form of red spots, scaly plaques or moles on the skin. Make sure to consult a doctor if you are unsure about any bump or spot on your body that:
· wont go away over time· is changing or getting worse· appears suddenly, without any obvious reasons· looks suspicious and makes you feel concerned.
Do a smart check now with SkinVision and get an instant risk indication.
Hand Foot And Mouth Disease
Eww … what’s that? Red, often painful, blister-like bumps on the tongue, gums, and inner cheeks a red rash — perhaps with blisters — on the palms, soles, and buttocks
How’d it happen? The Coxsackie virus typically causes HFMD, which is common among kids in diapers. The virus lives in an infected person’s stool and can occur when an unwashed hand ends up in someone else’s mouth.
The fix The itch-free rash goes away on its own and symptoms last about a week. HFMD usually comes with a fever and a sore throat, so give acetaminophen or, for babies over 6 months, ibuprofen. Because the mouth sores can sting, avoid salty or spicy foods.
See a doctor… If your child has a fever above 104°F , is in severe pain, exhibits signs of dehydration, or if OTC medications aren’t helping with the symptoms.
You May Like: How To Check If You Have Skin Cancer
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.
Catching Ringworm From Pets
Ringworm is an example of a zoonotic disease . Cats are among the most commonly affected animals. If a cat has ringworm, a person in the house often gets the infection. Dogs, cows, goats, pigs, and horses can also spread ringworm to humans. People catch ringworm from touching the animals, or touching their bedding, grooming items, saddles, carpeting, etc.
You May Like: Radio Frequency Skin Tightening Dangers
Which Infectious Conditions Cause Red Spots
Common infections that can cause red spots include:
- Fungal infections: Ringworm is a fungal infection that looks like a ring of red spots that surrounds a clear area. Treatment involves anti-fungal ointments and medications.
- Shingles: They are medically known as herpes zoster. Shingles is a painful rash that can present with blisters that are formed on one side of the face or body. Since it is a viral rash, it is treated by anti-viral oral pills.
- Roseola infantum: Roseola infantum is a viral infection that occurs in babies and causes a high fever followed by a rash. There is no specific treatment for roseola infantum. Most cases of roseola infantum are mild and self-limited. Treatment involves rest, adequate fluid intake, and medications to control fever.
- Erythema infectiosum or Fifth disease: This is a viral infection that commonly occurs during childhood. Signs and symptoms include a red rash on the cheeks that resemble a slapped cheek, fever, sore throat, stomach upset, and headache. Generally, no treatment is necessary. An antihistamine can be used if the rash is itchy.
- Viral diseases, such as measles, rubella, chickenpox, and COVID-19: Each of these conditions is associated with its own signs and symptoms. It is advisable to contact a doctor for correct diagnosis and treatment.
When To See A Doctor
One should see a doctor if:
- If the rash involves a large area of the body.
- There is a visible discharge.
- It is accompanied with other symptoms like fever, confusion, dizziness, headache, joint pain etc.
- Rash occurred after a tick bite.
- The rash doesnt go away.
- You are not sure what is causing the rash.
Read Also: Can Skin Cancer Look Like Eczema
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.
What Causes That Itchy Rash
Atopic Dermatitis Finger
The cause of your rash could be due to a plethora of conditions. Rashes are not easy to diagnose and in some cases even doctors struggle to diagnose correctly. We would always recommend speaking to a board-certified dermatologist if you have a persistent rash. Equally, we have created artificial intelligence that allows you to search for potential skin rash causes. Simply upload an image and we provide the results.
Check Rashes at Home
Outbreaks of rashes that are itchy, red, spots or bumps on the skin are very common and have many different causes. If you have an outbreak, you need to do some itchy rash investigation yourself.
There are a few things to consider before talking to a doctor. Firstly, did you come into contact with something unusual recently? This can include both natural materials and artificial materials or work related . Anything unusual?
Maybe you ate fruit that you do not usually eat or used a new cosmetic or detergent product? Any of these, you likely have an allergy-related rash. An online dermatologist can confirm a case of an allergy-related rash in just a few hours.
Also Check: Skin Better Science Promo Code
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.
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.
Recommended Reading: What Does The Beginning Of Skin Cancer Look Like
Causes Of Rashes In Children
Children are particularly prone to rashes that develop as a result of illnesses:
- Chickenpox is caused by a virus, and the rash is characterized by small itchy bumps and blisters that form all over the body.
- Measles is a viral respiratory infection that causes a widespread rash consisting of itchy, red bumps.
- Scarlet fever is an infection due to group A Streptococcus bacteria that produces a toxin, causing a bright red or skin-tone-colored, sandpaper-like rash.
- Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a viral infection that can cause red lesions on the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet.
- Fifth disease is a viral infection that causes a red, flat rash on the torso, arms, and legs.
- Kawasaki disease is a rare but serious illness that triggers a rash and fever in the early stages and can lead to heart complications.
- Impetigo is a contagious bacterial infection that causes an itchy, crusty rash and yellow, fluid-filled sores on the affected area, such as the face, neck, or hands.
You can treat most contact rashes, but it depends on the cause. Follow these guidelines to help ease discomfort and speed up the healing process: