Rash Evaluation
What Is A Rash?
Rashes are eruptions in the skin that can take many different forms. Redness, itching and scaling are the most common symptoms that one may experience, however burning, pain, blisters, pustules, weeping, and welts may also occur. Some rashes have an infectious cause, some are due to allergic reactions, and others may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition.
Common Types of Rashes
Here is a list of the most common rashes we encounter at the Center for Dermatology and Laser Surgery:
- Poison oak/Poison ivy
- Eczema/Atopic dermatitis
- Psoriasis
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Pityriasis rosea
- Perioral dermatitis
- Scabies
- Diaper rash
- Ringworm/Athlete’s foot
- Lichen planus
- Medication reactions
- Allergic contact dermatitis
- Lupus
- Hives
- Shingles
- Herpes virus eruptions
- Folliculitis
How Are Rashes Diagnosed?
In many cases, a rash may be diagnosed through physical examination alone, however there are many tools available to aid in correctly identifying a skin eruption. These would include skin biopsies, cultures for bacteria, fungi and viruses, microscopic examination of skin scrapings, and blood tests. If you are experiencing a troubling rash, please schedule with a medical provider for evaluation. Urgent appointments are available for those suffering from rapidly evolving or extremely uncomfortable eruptions.
