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Philadelphia and Mainline Center of Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery

Written by Dr. Ringpfeil

Rashes

The word rash is a general term that can refer to a variety of skin eruptions. The symptoms or lack thereof, the appearance of the rash, location and duration are useful in arriving at a diagnosis.

Is the rash itchy? Typically rashes associated with eczema (atopic dermatitis) and contact dermatitis are known for being very itchy. A classic example of a contact dermatitis is a rash from poison ivy. If you have ever had a rash from contact with poison ivy you know that itching is a predominant feature. Plants are not the only source of a contact dermatitis. You can get contact dermatitis from metals, particularly nickel, from cosmetics and even from some topical medications such as Neosporin Ointment or Bacitracin. Avoiding continued contact with the offending agent is key. Treatment usually involves use of a topical anti-inflammatory agent such as a steroid cream.

Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is associated with a history of dry, sensitive skin. Often there is a personal or family history of asthma or seasonal allergies. Cleansing your skin gently with a soap free cleanser and moisturizing liberally and regularly are key to preventing eczema flares. When flares of itchy red areas on the skin do occur treatment with a topical steroid appropriate to the location on the body is often needed.

skin rash

Rashes for which itching is not a predominant feature include psoriasis, fungal infections and viral exanthems. Psoriasis presents with red patches with silvery scale typically on elbows and knees. While psoriasis on these locations usually does not itch, psoriasis on the scalp can be itchy. Psoriasis often has a hereditary component. Treatment is based on how much skin is involved and can include use of topical steroids and Vitamin D analogues, light treatments, oral or injectable medications.

Fungal skin infections commonly known as ringworm appear as a ring of scaly red skin. Sometimes little bumps can be present along the edge. Itching is often present but not intense. Sometimes a skin scraping has to be taken to confirm the diagnosis. The problem can usually be treated with a topical antifungal medication.

Viral exanthems are rashes caused by a systemic viral infection. They usually are not itchy. These rashes tend to resolve with time without the need of treatment.

Appearance is another important clue in identifying a rash. A poorly defined area of scaly red skin often suggests eczema (atopic dermatitis), well defined thickened scaly plaques suggest psoriasis, scaly ring-like lesions suggest a fungal infection, pus-filled bumps suggest a bacterial infection, small blisters can indicate a viral infection like fever blisters or shingles; insect bites or contact dermatitis. Of course this is just a sampling of the many ways a rash can present and less common causes also need to be considered.

The location on the body provides a valuable clue. Common sites for a fungal infection are the groin and the feet; psoriasis often affects the elbows, knees and scalp; eczema (atopic dermatitis) commonly involves the inside of the elbow and the area behind the knee in children; fever blisters occur on the lips; rashes brought on by the sun affect sun exposed areas of the skin; seborrheic dermatitis affects hair bearing areas, ears and face.

Duration of the rash is an identifying characteristic. New onset itchy rashes may indicate a contact dermatitis whereas rashes that have come and gone over a period of months or years would more likely denote atopic dermatitis, psoriasis or seborrheic dermatitis.

These general guidelines can provide some clues to the diagnosis but rashes need to be seen and sometimes felt to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. It is recommended that you make an appointment with a trained skin care provider for assessment of your rash since different rashes can have a similar

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SKIN

# of surveys: 4008
Last updated: 3/15/2023 9:53 PM

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definitely
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Compare our service to other similar practices

excellent
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Overall doctor performance

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The doctor listened to you attentively

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The doctor took time to answer your questions

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The doctor explained treatment options

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The doctor explained treatment options

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Front desk performance

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Aesthetician performance

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Office comfort

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What WE DID WELL

(Answers:674)

I was scared that I had something on my face after my laser treatment. As it turns out Jill took a second look and told me it was normal and it will resolve. The reason why I tell you this is because Lisa at the front desk was instrumental on making sure I was followed up and that my fears were elevated. Lisa was outstanding! From my experiences in the past, I find most people at the front desk don't really care about the patients. However, I did not get that from Lisa. She kept in contact with me until I was completely satisfied with my care. She really is a professional and deserves recognition. Her job is the most important one in the office. I have left other offices in the past because I didn't care for the staff. That won't happen here! Hats of to LISA!!!! P.S. The computer in the waiting room is AWESOME too!!!

#12012-12-06 11:38:48

Everything even your choice of music.

#22023-01-20

Everyone was attentive and friendly. The music in the waiting room was beautiful.

#32022-10-19

From the moment I walked in the great experience started for me.

#42022-07-20

Definitely the best overall dermatology practice I've seen (I've seen a lot). Very well run and obviously the Dr. is extremely expert and knowledgeable.

#52011-06-09 11:41:32

The friendliness of the staff; I felt like the doctor really cared and wasn't just rushing me through the appointment. I felt heard and seen and appreciated.

#62011-01-25 09:09:30

Everything was very quick which I like, plus I got all the information I needed in that short amount of time.

#72012-09-04 12:31:55

The decor was really nice. It is a very warm and welcoming office. Not intimidating or over the top either. Nice in-between.

#82010-11-29 13:43:41

I liked all rthe art work that was hanging up in the hallways. I also liked how friendly everyone was. It seemed as though they all wanted to be here. Some times at otjher places the people at the counter can be disrespectful. Not here. The or was very caring and explained the treatment in terms that we could understand.

#92022-09-13

Everyone was cordial and very attentive. Will definitely come back.

#102022-05-13

What can we do better?

(answers:373)

Waiting time in reception area was too long.

#12022-10-02

NO COMMENT AT THIS TIME.

#22022-07-27

coffee in waiting room

#32011-12-14 11:20:21

No changes recommended at this time.

#42023-03-17

Magazines in the examining room to read while I waited for the doctor (I get bored easily).

#52022-04-11

I actually appreciated and was so very happy with all aspects of my visit.

#62022-04-17

service was excellent

#72022-04-16

I can't think of anything.

#82010-08-25 14:18:06

Nothing, Thank you so much.

#92011-03-04 10:10:02

watercooler in waiting room.

#102022-11-03

Customer Rating : 4.6

Based on 402 ratings
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