Discoid eczema – NHS

Discoid eczema, also known as nummular or discoid dermatitis, is a long-term (chronic) skin condition that causes skin to become itchy, swollen and cracked in circular or oval patches.

Without treatment, discoid eczema can last for weeks, months or even years. It may also keep coming back – often in the same area that was affected previously.

Information:

Coronavirus advice

Get advice about coronavirus and eczema from the National Eczema Society

Symptoms of discoid eczema

Discoid eczema causes distinctive circular or oval patches of eczema. It can affect any part of the body, although it does not usually affect the face or scalp.

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The first sign of discoid eczema is usually a group of small spots or bumps on the skin. These then quickly join up to form larger patches that can range from a few millimetres to several centimetres in size.

On lighter skin these patches will be pink or red. On darker skin these patches can be a dark brown or they can be paler than the skin around them.

Initially, these patches are often swollen, blistered (covered with small fluid-filled pockets) and ooze fluid. They also tend to be very itchy, particularly at night.

Over time, the patches may become dry, crusty, cracked and flaky. The centre of the patch also sometimes clears, leaving a ring of discoloured skin that can be mistaken for ringworm.

You may just have 1 patch of discoid eczema, but most people get several patches. The skin between the patches is often dry.

Patches of discoid eczema can sometimes become infected. Signs of an infection can include:

• the patches oozing a lot of fluid
• a yellow crust developing over the patches
• the skin around the patches becoming hot, swollen and tender or painful
• feeling sick
• feeling hot or shivery
• feeling unwell

When to seek medical advice

See a pharmacist or GP if you think you may have discoid eczema. They can recommend a suitable treatment.

You should also seek medical advice if you think your skin may be infected. You may need to use an antibiotic cream or, in severe cases, take antibiotics as a tablet or capsule.

A GP should be able to make a diagnosis just by examining the affected areas of skin. In some cases they may also ask questions or arrange some tests to rule out other conditions.

A GP may refer you to a doctor who specialises in skin conditions (dermatologist) if they’re unsure of the diagnosis or if you need a patch test.

Causes of discoid eczema

The cause of discoid eczema is unknown, although it may happen as a result of having particularly dry skin.

When your skin is very dry it cannot provide an effective barrier against substances that come into contact with it. This could allow a previously harmless substance, such as soap, to irritate your skin.

It’s important to look carefully at all the chemicals in cosmetics and toiletries that may have come into contact with your skin. Contact dermatitis, a type of eczema caused by coming into contact with a particular irritant, may have a role in discoid eczema.

Some people with discoid eczema also have a history of atopic eczema, which often happens in people who are prone to asthma and hay fever. However, unlike atopic eczema, discoid eczema does not seem to run in families.

Other possible triggers 

An outbreak of discoid eczema may sometimes be triggered by a minor skin injury, such as an insect bite or a burn.

Some medicines may also be associated with discoid eczema, as patches of eczema can appear in people taking:

• interferon and ribavirin – when they’re used together to treat hepatitis C
• tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) blockers – used to treat some types of arthritis
• statins (cholesterol-lowering medicine) – which can cause dry skin and rashes

Dry environments and cold climates can make discoid eczema worse, and sunny or damp (humid) environments may make your symptoms better.

Treating discoid eczema

Discoid eczema is usually a long-term problem, but medicines are available to help relieve the symptoms and keep the condition under control.

Treatments include:

• emollients – moisturisers applied to the skin to stop it becoming dry
• topical corticosteroids – ointments and creams containing a steroid that are applied to the skin and may relieve severe symptoms
• antihistamines – medicines that can reduce itching

There are also things you can do yourself to help, such as avoiding all the irritating chemicals in soaps, detergents, bubble baths and shower gels.

Additional medicine can be prescribed if your eczema is infected or particularly severe.

Occasionally, areas of skin affected by discoid eczema can be left permanently discoloured after the condition has cleared up.

Find out more about treating discoid eczema.

Other types of eczema 

Eczema is the name for a group of skin conditions that cause dry, irritated skin. Other types of eczema include:

• atopic eczema (also called atopic dermatitis) – the most common type of eczema, it often runs in families and is linked to other conditions such as asthma and hay fever
• contact dermatitis – a type of eczema that happens when the skin comes into contact with a particular substance
• varicose eczema – a type of eczema that usually affects the lower legs and is caused by problems with the flow of blood through the leg veins

Page last reviewed: 30 October 2019
Next review due: 30 October 2022

Red circle on the skin but not ringworm: Other causes

Ringworm is characterized by scaly red patches, or “rings,” on the skin. But many other skin conditions can cause the same symptom.

This article looks at skin conditions that resemble ringworm and the range of treatments and strategies for prevention.

Pityriasis rosea is a common, mild skin rash that usually lasts for 6–8 weeks.

It causes a scaly pink patch, about 2–10 centimeters (cm) in diameter, to form on the skin. When the rash is smaller, it can be mistaken for ringworm, and it usually develops on the torso or neck.

The rash is not painful but may be itchy. In dark-skinned people, it may appear grey, dark brown, or black. In light-skinned people, it may appear pink or red.

A viral infection, such as herpes, is likely the cause of pityriasis rosea. But it is not contagious and cannot spread through physical contact.

Learn more about pityriasis rosea here.

Contact dermatitis is a type of eczema that forms in response to a substance irritating the skin.

A person with contact dermatitis may be having an allergic reaction to certain metals, such as nickel or cobalt, ingredients in cosmetics or soaps, or materials such as latex.

The term “contact dermatitis” is also used to describe skin irritation such as diaper rash or cracked skin after excessive hand washing.

Because contact dermatitis can cause patches of thickened, scaly skin to form, it can be confused with ringworm. On lighter skin, the patches may be red, while on darker skin they may be dark brown, purple, or gray.

Learn more about contact dermatitis here.

Nummular eczema, also known as nummular dermatitis or discoid eczema, is an inflammatory condition that causes coin-shaped patches of itchy, swollen skin to appear. This can occur anywhere on the body.

The patches tend to measure 1–4 inches, though they may be smaller, and they can be pink, red, or brown. The itching or burning sensations may be worse at night, and the patches may leak fluid or crust over.

It is not clear what causes nummular eczema, but a sensitivity to a certain metal, chemical, or medicine may be a trigger. Also, the symptoms may be worse in humid climates or cold, dry climates.

Learn more about the differences between nummular eczema and ringworm here.

Granuloma annulare is a rare, chronic skin disorder. It is not contagious or cancerous.

It causes patches of skin to form with a distinctive border of small, firm bumps. The patches may be 1–5 cm in diameter and appear on the legs and arms, and the color of the bumps may be yellow, red, pink, or purple.

The rash is not usually painful, but it is sometimes itchy.

The most common type is localized granuloma annulare. It affects children and young adults and usually goes away without treatment.

Experts are not sure exactly what causes granuloma annulare, but it may involve:

Psoriasis is a common long-term skin condition that develops when the body produces skin cells too quickly. The cells pile up, forming visible patches on the skin’s surface.

The patches can:

• be silvery
• occur with other color changes
• be flaky or crusty
• be itchy or sore
• cause a burning sensation
• appear anywhere on the body — but most commonly on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back

Experts believe that psoriasis stems from problems with the immune system that cause the body to attack healthy skin cells.

It is not contagious, and it can run in families but is not always hereditary. The following factors can trigger psoriasis:

• hormonal changes
• excessive alcohol intake
• stress
• injuries to the skin, including insect bites and sunburn
• strep throat
• certain medicines, such as anti-inflammatory or high blood pressure medications

Learn more about the differences between psoriasis and ringworm here.

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by a bite from a black-legged tick.

People with Lyme disease tend to develop a circular bull’s-eye rash around the bite mark. On lighter skin, it may appear red or purple. On darker skin, it may appear dark brown or black.

The rash may be itchy or painful and occur with a burning sensation. It may be smooth or have a scaly or crusty outer border.

In about half of cases, Lyme disease also causes flu-like symptoms, such as a fever, muscle aches, and fatigue.

Learn more about Lyme disease here.

The right treatment approach for a red, circular rash depends on the cause, and an accurate diagnosis is key.

Taking into account the severity of the rash and any other symptoms, a person may benefit from a combination of the following treatments and home care strategies:

Avoiding the cause

Conditions such as contact dermatitis, nummular eczema, and psoriasis can occur or flare up in response to triggers. Identifying and avoiding specific triggers can help keep the symptoms at bay.

Emollients

Emollients are moisturizing treatments that help soothe and hydrate the skin, reduce itchiness, and prevent inflammation.

They come as lotions, sprays, or soap substitutes. In most cases, a person can purchase emollients from a pharmacy without a prescription.

Topical treatments and drugs

Professional treatment often starts with a medicated ointment or cream, which may contain corticosteroids or antibiotics.

A doctor may also recommend corticosteroid injections or tablets, oral antibiotics, or oral antihistamines.

However, for Lyme disease, antibiotic tablets or injections are the first-line treatment.

For psoriasis, the wide range of medicated creams includes:

• dithranol or vitamin D analog creams to slow skin cell production
• calcineurin inhibitor creams to suppress the immune system
• coal tar, a thick, heavy oil, to reduce itchiness and inflammation

Other therapies

Some forms of light therapy, such as ultraviolet light therapy, may help with granuloma annulare, nummular eczema, psoriasis, and pityriasis rosea.

Immunosuppressant therapy can also help with nummular eczema and contact dermatitis.

Cryotherapy, which involves freezing areas of skin with liquid nitrogen, can help control granuloma annulare.

If an unexplained rash lasts longer than a few weeks, see a doctor, such as a dermatologist.

It is especially important to receive professional care if the rash:

• is all over the body
• is painful
• seems to be infected
• begins to blister, especially near the eyes, inside the mouth, or near the genitals
• occurs with any fatigue or joint pain

The American Academy of Dermatology recommend receiving emergency care if a rash:

• accompanies a fever
• accompanies difficulty breathing
• appeared suddenly and is spreading quickly

Rashes that are circular and scaly do not always indicate ringworm. They can result from several common health issues, some of which are more serious than others.

A variety of treatments are available, and the best approach depends on the rash’s cause and severity.

Anyone with an unexplained rash should receive a professional diagnosis. If a rash has appeared and spread very quickly, or if it occurs with a fever or difficulty breathing, contact emergency services.

Red circle on the skin but not ringworm: Other causes

Ringworm is characterized by scaly red patches, or “rings,” on the skin. But many other skin conditions can cause the same symptom.

This article looks at skin conditions that resemble ringworm and the range of treatments and strategies for prevention.

Pityriasis rosea is a common, mild skin rash that usually lasts for 6–8 weeks.

It causes a scaly pink patch, about 2–10 centimeters (cm) in diameter, to form on the skin. When the rash is smaller, it can be mistaken for ringworm, and it usually develops on the torso or neck.

The rash is not painful but may be itchy. In dark-skinned people, it may appear grey, dark brown, or black. In light-skinned people, it may appear pink or red.

A viral infection, such as herpes, is likely the cause of pityriasis rosea. But it is not contagious and cannot spread through physical contact.

Learn more about pityriasis rosea here.

Contact dermatitis is a type of eczema that forms in response to a substance irritating the skin.

A person with contact dermatitis may be having an allergic reaction to certain metals, such as nickel or cobalt, ingredients in cosmetics or soaps, or materials such as latex.

The term “contact dermatitis” is also used to describe skin irritation such as diaper rash or cracked skin after excessive hand washing.

Because contact dermatitis can cause patches of thickened, scaly skin to form, it can be confused with ringworm. On lighter skin, the patches may be red, while on darker skin they may be dark brown, purple, or gray.

Learn more about contact dermatitis here.

Nummular eczema, also known as nummular dermatitis or discoid eczema, is an inflammatory condition that causes coin-shaped patches of itchy, swollen skin to appear. This can occur anywhere on the body.

The patches tend to measure 1–4 inches, though they may be smaller, and they can be pink, red, or brown. The itching or burning sensations may be worse at night, and the patches may leak fluid or crust over.

It is not clear what causes nummular eczema, but a sensitivity to a certain metal, chemical, or medicine may be a trigger. Also, the symptoms may be worse in humid climates or cold, dry climates.

Learn more about the differences between nummular eczema and ringworm here.

Granuloma annulare is a rare, chronic skin disorder. It is not contagious or cancerous.

It causes patches of skin to form with a distinctive border of small, firm bumps. The patches may be 1–5 cm in diameter and appear on the legs and arms, and the color of the bumps may be yellow, red, pink, or purple.

The rash is not usually painful, but it is sometimes itchy.

The most common type is localized granuloma annulare. It affects children and young adults and usually goes away without treatment.

Experts are not sure exactly what causes granuloma annulare, but it may involve:

Psoriasis is a common long-term skin condition that develops when the body produces skin cells too quickly. The cells pile up, forming visible patches on the skin’s surface.

The patches can:

• be silvery
• occur with other color changes
• be flaky or crusty
• be itchy or sore
• cause a burning sensation
• appear anywhere on the body — but most commonly on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back

Experts believe that psoriasis stems from problems with the immune system that cause the body to attack healthy skin cells.

It is not contagious, and it can run in families but is not always hereditary. The following factors can trigger psoriasis:

• hormonal changes
• excessive alcohol intake
• stress
• injuries to the skin, including insect bites and sunburn
• strep throat
• certain medicines, such as anti-inflammatory or high blood pressure medications

Learn more about the differences between psoriasis and ringworm here.

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by a bite from a black-legged tick.

People with Lyme disease tend to develop a circular bull’s-eye rash around the bite mark. On lighter skin, it may appear red or purple. On darker skin, it may appear dark brown or black.

The rash may be itchy or painful and occur with a burning sensation. It may be smooth or have a scaly or crusty outer border.

In about half of cases, Lyme disease also causes flu-like symptoms, such as a fever, muscle aches, and fatigue.

Learn more about Lyme disease here.

The right treatment approach for a red, circular rash depends on the cause, and an accurate diagnosis is key.

Taking into account the severity of the rash and any other symptoms, a person may benefit from a combination of the following treatments and home care strategies:

Avoiding the cause

Conditions such as contact dermatitis, nummular eczema, and psoriasis can occur or flare up in response to triggers. Identifying and avoiding specific triggers can help keep the symptoms at bay.

Emollients

Emollients are moisturizing treatments that help soothe and hydrate the skin, reduce itchiness, and prevent inflammation.

They come as lotions, sprays, or soap substitutes. In most cases, a person can purchase emollients from a pharmacy without a prescription.

Topical treatments and drugs

Professional treatment often starts with a medicated ointment or cream, which may contain corticosteroids or antibiotics.

A doctor may also recommend corticosteroid injections or tablets, oral antibiotics, or oral antihistamines.

However, for Lyme disease, antibiotic tablets or injections are the first-line treatment.

For psoriasis, the wide range of medicated creams includes:

• dithranol or vitamin D analog creams to slow skin cell production
• calcineurin inhibitor creams to suppress the immune system
• coal tar, a thick, heavy oil, to reduce itchiness and inflammation

Other therapies

Some forms of light therapy, such as ultraviolet light therapy, may help with granuloma annulare, nummular eczema, psoriasis, and pityriasis rosea.

Immunosuppressant therapy can also help with nummular eczema and contact dermatitis.

Cryotherapy, which involves freezing areas of skin with liquid nitrogen, can help control granuloma annulare.

If an unexplained rash lasts longer than a few weeks, see a doctor, such as a dermatologist.

It is especially important to receive professional care if the rash:

• is all over the body
• is painful
• seems to be infected
• begins to blister, especially near the eyes, inside the mouth, or near the genitals
• occurs with any fatigue or joint pain

The American Academy of Dermatology recommend receiving emergency care if a rash:

• accompanies a fever
• accompanies difficulty breathing
• appeared suddenly and is spreading quickly

Rashes that are circular and scaly do not always indicate ringworm. They can result from several common health issues, some of which are more serious than others.

A variety of treatments are available, and the best approach depends on the rash’s cause and severity.

Anyone with an unexplained rash should receive a professional diagnosis. If a rash has appeared and spread very quickly, or if it occurs with a fever or difficulty breathing, contact emergency services.

Red circle on the skin but not ringworm: Other causes

Ringworm is characterized by scaly red patches, or “rings,” on the skin. But many other skin conditions can cause the same symptom.

This article looks at skin conditions that resemble ringworm and the range of treatments and strategies for prevention.

Pityriasis rosea is a common, mild skin rash that usually lasts for 6–8 weeks.

It causes a scaly pink patch, about 2–10 centimeters (cm) in diameter, to form on the skin. When the rash is smaller, it can be mistaken for ringworm, and it usually develops on the torso or neck.

The rash is not painful but may be itchy. In dark-skinned people, it may appear grey, dark brown, or black. In light-skinned people, it may appear pink or red.

A viral infection, such as herpes, is likely the cause of pityriasis rosea. But it is not contagious and cannot spread through physical contact.

Learn more about pityriasis rosea here.

Contact dermatitis is a type of eczema that forms in response to a substance irritating the skin.

A person with contact dermatitis may be having an allergic reaction to certain metals, such as nickel or cobalt, ingredients in cosmetics or soaps, or materials such as latex.

The term “contact dermatitis” is also used to describe skin irritation such as diaper rash or cracked skin after excessive hand washing.

Because contact dermatitis can cause patches of thickened, scaly skin to form, it can be confused with ringworm. On lighter skin, the patches may be red, while on darker skin they may be dark brown, purple, or gray.

Learn more about contact dermatitis here.

Nummular eczema, also known as nummular dermatitis or discoid eczema, is an inflammatory condition that causes coin-shaped patches of itchy, swollen skin to appear. This can occur anywhere on the body.

The patches tend to measure 1–4 inches, though they may be smaller, and they can be pink, red, or brown. The itching or burning sensations may be worse at night, and the patches may leak fluid or crust over.

It is not clear what causes nummular eczema, but a sensitivity to a certain metal, chemical, or medicine may be a trigger. Also, the symptoms may be worse in humid climates or cold, dry climates.

Learn more about the differences between nummular eczema and ringworm here.

Granuloma annulare is a rare, chronic skin disorder. It is not contagious or cancerous.

It causes patches of skin to form with a distinctive border of small, firm bumps. The patches may be 1–5 cm in diameter and appear on the legs and arms, and the color of the bumps may be yellow, red, pink, or purple.

The rash is not usually painful, but it is sometimes itchy.

The most common type is localized granuloma annulare. It affects children and young adults and usually goes away without treatment.

Experts are not sure exactly what causes granuloma annulare, but it may involve:

Psoriasis is a common long-term skin condition that develops when the body produces skin cells too quickly. The cells pile up, forming visible patches on the skin’s surface.

The patches can:

• be silvery
• occur with other color changes
• be flaky or crusty
• be itchy or sore
• cause a burning sensation
• appear anywhere on the body — but most commonly on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back

Experts believe that psoriasis stems from problems with the immune system that cause the body to attack healthy skin cells.

It is not contagious, and it can run in families but is not always hereditary. The following factors can trigger psoriasis:

• hormonal changes
• excessive alcohol intake
• stress
• injuries to the skin, including insect bites and sunburn
• strep throat
• certain medicines, such as anti-inflammatory or high blood pressure medications

Learn more about the differences between psoriasis and ringworm here.

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by a bite from a black-legged tick.

People with Lyme disease tend to develop a circular bull’s-eye rash around the bite mark. On lighter skin, it may appear red or purple. On darker skin, it may appear dark brown or black.

The rash may be itchy or painful and occur with a burning sensation. It may be smooth or have a scaly or crusty outer border.

In about half of cases, Lyme disease also causes flu-like symptoms, such as a fever, muscle aches, and fatigue.

Learn more about Lyme disease here.

The right treatment approach for a red, circular rash depends on the cause, and an accurate diagnosis is key.

Taking into account the severity of the rash and any other symptoms, a person may benefit from a combination of the following treatments and home care strategies:

Avoiding the cause

Conditions such as contact dermatitis, nummular eczema, and psoriasis can occur or flare up in response to triggers. Identifying and avoiding specific triggers can help keep the symptoms at bay.

Emollients

Emollients are moisturizing treatments that help soothe and hydrate the skin, reduce itchiness, and prevent inflammation.

They come as lotions, sprays, or soap substitutes. In most cases, a person can purchase emollients from a pharmacy without a prescription.

Topical treatments and drugs

Professional treatment often starts with a medicated ointment or cream, which may contain corticosteroids or antibiotics.

A doctor may also recommend corticosteroid injections or tablets, oral antibiotics, or oral antihistamines.

However, for Lyme disease, antibiotic tablets or injections are the first-line treatment.

For psoriasis, the wide range of medicated creams includes:

• dithranol or vitamin D analog creams to slow skin cell production
• calcineurin inhibitor creams to suppress the immune system
• coal tar, a thick, heavy oil, to reduce itchiness and inflammation

Other therapies

Some forms of light therapy, such as ultraviolet light therapy, may help with granuloma annulare, nummular eczema, psoriasis, and pityriasis rosea.

Immunosuppressant therapy can also help with nummular eczema and contact dermatitis.

Cryotherapy, which involves freezing areas of skin with liquid nitrogen, can help control granuloma annulare.

If an unexplained rash lasts longer than a few weeks, see a doctor, such as a dermatologist.

It is especially important to receive professional care if the rash:

• is all over the body
• is painful
• seems to be infected
• begins to blister, especially near the eyes, inside the mouth, or near the genitals
• occurs with any fatigue or joint pain

The American Academy of Dermatology recommend receiving emergency care if a rash:

• accompanies a fever
• accompanies difficulty breathing
• appeared suddenly and is spreading quickly

Rashes that are circular and scaly do not always indicate ringworm. They can result from several common health issues, some of which are more serious than others.

A variety of treatments are available, and the best approach depends on the rash’s cause and severity.

Anyone with an unexplained rash should receive a professional diagnosis. If a rash has appeared and spread very quickly, or if it occurs with a fever or difficulty breathing, contact emergency services.

Red circle on the skin but not ringworm: Other causes

Ringworm is characterized by scaly red patches, or “rings,” on the skin. But many other skin conditions can cause the same symptom.

This article looks at skin conditions that resemble ringworm and the range of treatments and strategies for prevention.

Pityriasis rosea is a common, mild skin rash that usually lasts for 6–8 weeks.

It causes a scaly pink patch, about 2–10 centimeters (cm) in diameter, to form on the skin. When the rash is smaller, it can be mistaken for ringworm, and it usually develops on the torso or neck.

The rash is not painful but may be itchy. In dark-skinned people, it may appear grey, dark brown, or black. In light-skinned people, it may appear pink or red.

A viral infection, such as herpes, is likely the cause of pityriasis rosea. But it is not contagious and cannot spread through physical contact.

Learn more about pityriasis rosea here.

Contact dermatitis is a type of eczema that forms in response to a substance irritating the skin.

A person with contact dermatitis may be having an allergic reaction to certain metals, such as nickel or cobalt, ingredients in cosmetics or soaps, or materials such as latex.

The term “contact dermatitis” is also used to describe skin irritation such as diaper rash or cracked skin after excessive hand washing.

Because contact dermatitis can cause patches of thickened, scaly skin to form, it can be confused with ringworm. On lighter skin, the patches may be red, while on darker skin they may be dark brown, purple, or gray.

Learn more about contact dermatitis here.

Nummular eczema, also known as nummular dermatitis or discoid eczema, is an inflammatory condition that causes coin-shaped patches of itchy, swollen skin to appear. This can occur anywhere on the body.

The patches tend to measure 1–4 inches, though they may be smaller, and they can be pink, red, or brown. The itching or burning sensations may be worse at night, and the patches may leak fluid or crust over.

It is not clear what causes nummular eczema, but a sensitivity to a certain metal, chemical, or medicine may be a trigger. Also, the symptoms may be worse in humid climates or cold, dry climates.

Learn more about the differences between nummular eczema and ringworm here.

Granuloma annulare is a rare, chronic skin disorder. It is not contagious or cancerous.

It causes patches of skin to form with a distinctive border of small, firm bumps. The patches may be 1–5 cm in diameter and appear on the legs and arms, and the color of the bumps may be yellow, red, pink, or purple.

The rash is not usually painful, but it is sometimes itchy.

The most common type is localized granuloma annulare. It affects children and young adults and usually goes away without treatment.

Experts are not sure exactly what causes granuloma annulare, but it may involve:

Psoriasis is a common long-term skin condition that develops when the body produces skin cells too quickly. The cells pile up, forming visible patches on the skin’s surface.

The patches can:

• be silvery
• occur with other color changes
• be flaky or crusty
• be itchy or sore
• cause a burning sensation
• appear anywhere on the body — but most commonly on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back

Experts believe that psoriasis stems from problems with the immune system that cause the body to attack healthy skin cells.

It is not contagious, and it can run in families but is not always hereditary. The following factors can trigger psoriasis:

• hormonal changes
• excessive alcohol intake
• stress
• injuries to the skin, including insect bites and sunburn
• strep throat
• certain medicines, such as anti-inflammatory or high blood pressure medications

Learn more about the differences between psoriasis and ringworm here.

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by a bite from a black-legged tick.

People with Lyme disease tend to develop a circular bull’s-eye rash around the bite mark. On lighter skin, it may appear red or purple. On darker skin, it may appear dark brown or black.

The rash may be itchy or painful and occur with a burning sensation. It may be smooth or have a scaly or crusty outer border.

In about half of cases, Lyme disease also causes flu-like symptoms, such as a fever, muscle aches, and fatigue.

Learn more about Lyme disease here.

The right treatment approach for a red, circular rash depends on the cause, and an accurate diagnosis is key.

Taking into account the severity of the rash and any other symptoms, a person may benefit from a combination of the following treatments and home care strategies:

Avoiding the cause

Conditions such as contact dermatitis, nummular eczema, and psoriasis can occur or flare up in response to triggers. Identifying and avoiding specific triggers can help keep the symptoms at bay.

Emollients

Emollients are moisturizing treatments that help soothe and hydrate the skin, reduce itchiness, and prevent inflammation.

They come as lotions, sprays, or soap substitutes. In most cases, a person can purchase emollients from a pharmacy without a prescription.

Topical treatments and drugs

Professional treatment often starts with a medicated ointment or cream, which may contain corticosteroids or antibiotics.

A doctor may also recommend corticosteroid injections or tablets, oral antibiotics, or oral antihistamines.

However, for Lyme disease, antibiotic tablets or injections are the first-line treatment.

For psoriasis, the wide range of medicated creams includes:

• dithranol or vitamin D analog creams to slow skin cell production
• calcineurin inhibitor creams to suppress the immune system
• coal tar, a thick, heavy oil, to reduce itchiness and inflammation

Other therapies

Some forms of light therapy, such as ultraviolet light therapy, may help with granuloma annulare, nummular eczema, psoriasis, and pityriasis rosea.

Immunosuppressant therapy can also help with nummular eczema and contact dermatitis.

Cryotherapy, which involves freezing areas of skin with liquid nitrogen, can help control granuloma annulare.

If an unexplained rash lasts longer than a few weeks, see a doctor, such as a dermatologist.

It is especially important to receive professional care if the rash:

• is all over the body
• is painful
• seems to be infected
• begins to blister, especially near the eyes, inside the mouth, or near the genitals
• occurs with any fatigue or joint pain

The American Academy of Dermatology recommend receiving emergency care if a rash:

• accompanies a fever
• accompanies difficulty breathing
• appeared suddenly and is spreading quickly

Rashes that are circular and scaly do not always indicate ringworm. They can result from several common health issues, some of which are more serious than others.

A variety of treatments are available, and the best approach depends on the rash’s cause and severity.

Anyone with an unexplained rash should receive a professional diagnosis. If a rash has appeared and spread very quickly, or if it occurs with a fever or difficulty breathing, contact emergency services.

Circular rash: Causes and diagnosis

The most common cause of a circular rash on the skin is ringworm, but other issues can also leave this distinctive mark.

A doctor diagnoses the cause of a rash after examining it and asking about symptoms. They may recommend oral medication, a topical cream, or strategies for avoiding triggers.

In this article, learn more about the issues that can cause this rash and how to treat them.

Despite its name, ringworm is a fungal skin infection — it is not caused by a worm or any other parasite.

The infection got its name because it causes a rash that is usually circular, with a thin raised ring around the edge that may look like a worm.

Symptoms

The circular rash may initially measure a few centimeters across, and it can grow without treatment. It may look like a round, flat patch, and the middle of the rash tends to heal first.

On lighter skin, a ringworm rash is red or pink, and on darker skin, it is silver or brown.

The skin around the rash may be dry or scaly, and the rash can be extremely itchy.

Ringworm can appear on any part of the body, and the rash may not be ring-shaped if it appears on the scalp, soles of the feet, palms, groin, or nails. Athlete’s foot and jock itch are types of ringworm.

Ringworm is infectious and can pass from one person to another through close contact.

How long is ringworm contagious for? Find out here.

Treatment

Treatment involves antifungal cream or gel. A person should:

• Use the medication for 2–4 weeks, even after the symptoms go away.
• Keep the skin as clean and dry as possible.
• Wash the hands after touching the rash to keep it from spreading to other parts of the body.

The risk of developing ringworm is higher in warm, humid weather. To reduce the chances:

• Always shower after exercise.
• Change clothes daily.
• Do not share towels or brushes.
• Take any pet that develops bare patches of fur or other ringworm symptoms to the vet.

Learn about home remedies for ringworm here.

After a tick bite, a circular rash may develop at the site. This is an early symptom of Lyme disease.

Symptoms

The circular rash can appear days or weeks after the bite, and it may have a distinctive bull’s eye appearance.

On lighter skin, a person may see three circles surrounding the bite: a red circle closest to the bite, then a lighter ring, then another red ring. On darker skin, the appearance can be different — check for a raised ring around the bite.

The rash usually expands over time. It can cause pain, burning, or itching, and it may be warm to the touch.

A tick may bite any part of the body, and it may favor exposed or warm areas. These bites are common in the lower leg, armpit, groin, and back.

About half of the people who contract Lyme disease have flu symptoms, which usually appear before the rash.

Treatment

Receiving treatment early on is crucial. At an initial stage, a course of antibiotics can cure Lyme disease.

Check the skin for tick bites after being outdoors. Remove a tick right away, without squeezing it, and be sure to remove the tick entirely.

Learn more about the Lyme disease rash here.

Contact dermatitis is an allergic skin reaction.

Symptoms

The skin will darken or redden and may feel itchy or dry. Contact dermatitis can also cause the skin to swell or blister.

The size of the rash depends on how much skin has come into contact with the allergen.

The rash may be circular if the object triggering the reaction is round. For example, if a person has a nickel allergy, wearing a nickel watch may cause a round rash to form on the wrist.

Treatment

The most effective way to combat contact dermatitis is to identify and avoid contact with the allergen or irritant.

It can help to use products designed for sensitive skin and to check labels of soaps and personal care products carefully for common allergens and irritants.

Over-the-counter creams can help reduce swelling and irritation.

Learn more about contact dermatitis here.

Hives are a reaction to temperature, food, medication, viral infections, and other triggers.

Symptoms

Hives form when the skin swells into welts. These are red or skin-colored bumps or patches that may itch or burn.

Hives can develop on any part of the body, and they may appear and disappear quickly. In some people, hives or patches of hives may be circular and resemble bug bites.

Treatment

Antihistamines can reduce swelling and prevent hives if they result from contact with an allergen.

If hot weather is a trigger for hives, wear loose clothing, and use sunscreen. Also, it may help to dampen the skin with a wet washcloth.

Learn more treatments for hives here.

Granuloma annulare is rare. It causes bumps to form a circular or ring-shaped rash.

The rash most often appears on the hands, arms, or feet. Less commonly, it can spread across the body, or smaller patches can join to form larger ones.

Symptoms

The causes are still unclear, but granuloma annulare can develop after skin damage or a viral infection.

Granuloma annulare causes no symptoms beyond the rash, and it is not contagious.

Treatment

The condition usually disappears without treatment, but it can last for years. Steroid injections or creams may help the body heal.

If any circular rash lasts for a long time, causes significant discomfort, or affects the face or throat, a person should see a doctor.

If ringworm doesn’t go away after 2 weeks of treatment, see a doctor.

If it affects the scalp, however, it is a good idea to consult a doctor or pharmacist right away. Also, anyone who has a weakened immune system should see a doctor if they have ringworm.

If an allergic reaction is severe or the cause is unclear, seek professional guidance.

Always see a doctor about a tick bite, unless the tick was safely removed within 36 hours of the bite.

Seek urgent medical care if a rash:

• covers the entire body
• occurs with a fever
• is painful
• begins to blister
• occurs with difficulty breathing

A doctor, such as a dermatologist, will consider accompanying symptoms and any contact with allergens or irritants when diagnosing a circular rash.

Allergists can test for triggers of skin reactions, which are often pet hair or medication.

They may test the skin, blood, or urine, but they commonly perform patch tests. This involves placing strips containing small amounts of allergens on the back. The doctor then removes the strips after 48 hours to check for an allergic reaction.

Keeping track of foods, drinks, medications, physical activities, and symptoms in a diary can help a person identify what might be triggering a reaction.

The size and shape of a circular rash and the symptoms it accompanies can each point to the cause.

A person can treat mild cases of ringworm, hives, and contact dermatitis with home care and over-the-counter products. However, if a circular rash is severe or may result from a tick bite, see a doctor.

It is also important for a person to receive professional care if they have had an allergic reaction without an obvious cause.

Anyone with a persistent rash or other skin problems may benefit from seeing a dermatologist.

Circular rash: Causes and diagnosis

The most common cause of a circular rash on the skin is ringworm, but other issues can also leave this distinctive mark.

A doctor diagnoses the cause of a rash after examining it and asking about symptoms. They may recommend oral medication, a topical cream, or strategies for avoiding triggers.

In this article, learn more about the issues that can cause this rash and how to treat them.

Despite its name, ringworm is a fungal skin infection — it is not caused by a worm or any other parasite.

The infection got its name because it causes a rash that is usually circular, with a thin raised ring around the edge that may look like a worm.

Symptoms

The circular rash may initially measure a few centimeters across, and it can grow without treatment. It may look like a round, flat patch, and the middle of the rash tends to heal first.

On lighter skin, a ringworm rash is red or pink, and on darker skin, it is silver or brown.

The skin around the rash may be dry or scaly, and the rash can be extremely itchy.

Ringworm can appear on any part of the body, and the rash may not be ring-shaped if it appears on the scalp, soles of the feet, palms, groin, or nails. Athlete’s foot and jock itch are types of ringworm.

Ringworm is infectious and can pass from one person to another through close contact.

How long is ringworm contagious for? Find out here.

Treatment

Treatment involves antifungal cream or gel. A person should:

• Use the medication for 2–4 weeks, even after the symptoms go away.
• Keep the skin as clean and dry as possible.
• Wash the hands after touching the rash to keep it from spreading to other parts of the body.

The risk of developing ringworm is higher in warm, humid weather. To reduce the chances:

• Always shower after exercise.
• Change clothes daily.
• Do not share towels or brushes.
• Take any pet that develops bare patches of fur or other ringworm symptoms to the vet.

Learn about home remedies for ringworm here.

After a tick bite, a circular rash may develop at the site. This is an early symptom of Lyme disease.

Symptoms

The circular rash can appear days or weeks after the bite, and it may have a distinctive bull’s eye appearance.

On lighter skin, a person may see three circles surrounding the bite: a red circle closest to the bite, then a lighter ring, then another red ring. On darker skin, the appearance can be different — check for a raised ring around the bite.

The rash usually expands over time. It can cause pain, burning, or itching, and it may be warm to the touch.

A tick may bite any part of the body, and it may favor exposed or warm areas. These bites are common in the lower leg, armpit, groin, and back.

About half of the people who contract Lyme disease have flu symptoms, which usually appear before the rash.

Treatment

Receiving treatment early on is crucial. At an initial stage, a course of antibiotics can cure Lyme disease.

Check the skin for tick bites after being outdoors. Remove a tick right away, without squeezing it, and be sure to remove the tick entirely.

Learn more about the Lyme disease rash here.

Contact dermatitis is an allergic skin reaction.

Symptoms

The skin will darken or redden and may feel itchy or dry. Contact dermatitis can also cause the skin to swell or blister.

The size of the rash depends on how much skin has come into contact with the allergen.

The rash may be circular if the object triggering the reaction is round. For example, if a person has a nickel allergy, wearing a nickel watch may cause a round rash to form on the wrist.

Treatment

The most effective way to combat contact dermatitis is to identify and avoid contact with the allergen or irritant.

It can help to use products designed for sensitive skin and to check labels of soaps and personal care products carefully for common allergens and irritants.

Over-the-counter creams can help reduce swelling and irritation.

Learn more about contact dermatitis here.

Hives are a reaction to temperature, food, medication, viral infections, and other triggers.

Symptoms

Hives form when the skin swells into welts. These are red or skin-colored bumps or patches that may itch or burn.

Hives can develop on any part of the body, and they may appear and disappear quickly. In some people, hives or patches of hives may be circular and resemble bug bites.

Treatment

Antihistamines can reduce swelling and prevent hives if they result from contact with an allergen.

If hot weather is a trigger for hives, wear loose clothing, and use sunscreen. Also, it may help to dampen the skin with a wet washcloth.

Learn more treatments for hives here.

Granuloma annulare is rare. It causes bumps to form a circular or ring-shaped rash.

The rash most often appears on the hands, arms, or feet. Less commonly, it can spread across the body, or smaller patches can join to form larger ones.

Symptoms

The causes are still unclear, but granuloma annulare can develop after skin damage or a viral infection.

Granuloma annulare causes no symptoms beyond the rash, and it is not contagious.

Treatment

The condition usually disappears without treatment, but it can last for years. Steroid injections or creams may help the body heal.

If any circular rash lasts for a long time, causes significant discomfort, or affects the face or throat, a person should see a doctor.

If ringworm doesn’t go away after 2 weeks of treatment, see a doctor.

If it affects the scalp, however, it is a good idea to consult a doctor or pharmacist right away. Also, anyone who has a weakened immune system should see a doctor if they have ringworm.

If an allergic reaction is severe or the cause is unclear, seek professional guidance.

Always see a doctor about a tick bite, unless the tick was safely removed within 36 hours of the bite.

Seek urgent medical care if a rash:

• covers the entire body
• occurs with a fever
• is painful
• begins to blister
• occurs with difficulty breathing

A doctor, such as a dermatologist, will consider accompanying symptoms and any contact with allergens or irritants when diagnosing a circular rash.

Allergists can test for triggers of skin reactions, which are often pet hair or medication.

They may test the skin, blood, or urine, but they commonly perform patch tests. This involves placing strips containing small amounts of allergens on the back. The doctor then removes the strips after 48 hours to check for an allergic reaction.

Keeping track of foods, drinks, medications, physical activities, and symptoms in a diary can help a person identify what might be triggering a reaction.

The size and shape of a circular rash and the symptoms it accompanies can each point to the cause.

A person can treat mild cases of ringworm, hives, and contact dermatitis with home care and over-the-counter products. However, if a circular rash is severe or may result from a tick bite, see a doctor.

It is also important for a person to receive professional care if they have had an allergic reaction without an obvious cause.

Anyone with a persistent rash or other skin problems may benefit from seeing a dermatologist.

90,000 The most effective treatment for atopic dermatitis in a clinic in Moscow

The human skin performs an important function – it protects the body from the adverse effects of the environment. This explains why there are so many skin conditions. Atopic dermatitis is considered one of the most severe and difficult. This is an allergic skin inflammation. Treatment of atopic dermatitis takes a long time because it is a chronic condition. It proceeds in waves, with periods of exacerbation and remission.

What are the causes of atopic dermatitis

In medicine, there is the term “atopy”, which refers to the increased sensitivity of the body to environmental factors. It can manifest itself as dermatitis. In this case, it is called atopic. There are also such names as neurodermatitis or atopic eczema. The main cause of the disease is heredity. It is transmitted to the child, even if one of the parents has atopy.

The disease is especially common among children – the incidence is about 15%. In adults, the development of atopy is also possible. About 2-8% of people suffer from it. Therefore, the symptoms and treatment of dermatitis is one of the important areas in dermatology. The number of cases is increasing every year. Various negative factors contribute to this:

• non-observance of proper nutrition;
• consumption of allergenic products;

90,013 increased incidence of stress and anxiety;

• poor ecological situation;
• Many chemical allergens.

What are the symptoms of the disease

In 60% of cases, the disease manifests itself in the first six months of life. In 80-90% of patients, atopy is detected before the age of 7 years. In a third of them, the disease is combined with bronchial asthma, in a quarter – with allergic rhinitis. In 8%, pollinosis is additionally found – an allergic reaction to plant pollen.

In any case, itching of the skin is considered the main symptom of atopic dermatitis, which intensifies in the evening and at night.It is not removed by drugs, interferes with sleep, and sometimes becomes the cause of nervous breakdowns. Therefore, the symptoms and treatment of atopic dermatitis require special attention from doctors. The most common signs include:

• dryness and flaking of the skin;
• flesh-colored plaques on extensor surfaces and trunk;

90,013 cracks in the skin;

• seizures in the corners of the mouth;
• peeling and redness of the upper eyelids.

Forms and stages of atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis has several variants of its course. With a mild form, 2 relapses occur per year, with an average – 3-4, and with a severe – more than 5. During atopic dermatitis, several stages are distinguished:

• Infant. In about 50% of patients, it ends with recovery, in others it turns into a child’s form.
• Children’s. It develops from 2 to 10-13 years old. This age accounts for about 20% of patients.
• Adult. This stage of the disease is typical for people over 18 years old, who make up only 5% of all patients.

At each stage, the treatment of skin dermatitis has its own principles and characteristics, taking into account the symptoms and the general condition of the patient. In the PsorMak clinic, therapy is selected individually for each person, based on his comprehensive examination.

Effective treatment of dermatitis

To prescribe an effective treatment, atopic dermatitis is diagnosed first.A decisive role in it is played by external examination and the study of anamnesis. They are necessary because atopy has no characteristic diagnostic features. Differential diagnosis of dermatitis is of particular importance here, which makes it possible to distinguish one type of disease from another. To establish a diagnosis at the Institute of Healthy Skin “PsorMak” do the following:

• Reveals the characteristic signs of atopy: certain affected areas, chronic course, severe itching, heredity.
• Carry out the necessary tests: blood tests, urine tests and skin tests for allergens.

After confirming the diagnosis, they begin to treat dermatitis. There is no single way to cope with the disease. For each patient, a different treatment regimen is selected. The PsorMak clinic uses the safest and most modern methods, including:

• Non-hormonal ointment developed by the clinic’s doctors and tested by many patients.For safety reasons, it is allowed in childhood and during pregnancy.
• Diet therapy. The menu is compiled individually, taking into account the patient’s allergies.
• Physiotherapy. Her courses are useful both in exacerbation and during remission. It has a tonic effect, helps to reduce the number of relapses.

Make an appointment with a dermatologist

Our specialists know how to treat atopic dermatitis even in the most difficult clinical cases.Extensive experience combined with an individual approach ensures the most effective results, which you can find in the corresponding section on the website.

Remember, it is important to start treatment as early as possible. Make an appointment with a dermatologist right now, without delaying it until tomorrow. Contact us through the form on the website or by contact numbers +7 (495) 150-15-14, +7 (800) 500-49-16.

HOW TO BOOK AN APPOINMENT at the Institute of Healthy Skin “PsorMak”

1. Click the button you see below –

2. Fill in the fields in the form that appears. Be sure to check the correctness of the phone number so that our specialist can get through to you. After filling, click on the “Send” button.

3. Wait for a call from our specialist. He will answer any of your questions and agree on the date and time of your visit to PsorMak.

Initial admission includes:

• Visual examination , which will allow the specialist to get a general idea of ​​the condition of your skin and of the pathology itself.
• Taking anamnesis – finding out information about the development of the disease, living conditions, past illnesses, operations, injuries, chronic pathologies, allergic reactions, heredity, etc. Together with a general examination, this allows you to accurately diagnose and choose a method of treatment and / or prevention.

WHAT WILL BE after passing the initial admission

Our specialist, dermatologist:

• Will inspect .
• Will take a free analysis (scraping) .
• Diagnoses or clarifies the diagnosis of a disease .
• Will give detailed recommendations .
• Prepare a personalized treatment plan .
• Will write a prescription for drugs (if necessary) .

90,000 Treatment of dry eczema at the PsorMak clinic in Moscow

In the field of dermatology, there are still sharp questions about what dry eczema is and why it occurs.In men and women, the disease develops with the same frequency. The reasons can be completely different: from a strong shock to a weakened immune system. The disease develops slowly, during its course there is a seasonality, therefore, active treatment of dry eczema falls on the winter period. At this time, an exacerbation occurs, associated with very dry air. In summer and autumn, symptoms subside and may even disappear completely.

Causes of dry eczema

The dry form of eczema is also sometimes called asteatotic.It is characterized by excessive dryness of the skin. The causes of dry eczema are divided into external and internal. The most common intrinsic factors include:

• Disorders in the digestive system;
• transferred stresses;
• weakened immunity;
• hereditary predisposition;
• infestation with worms;
• problems with metabolic processes.

The causes and treatment of dry eczema are related, since often the disease develops under the influence of several provoking factors at once.It can be various external influences:

• constant contact with aggressive household chemicals;
• consumption of allergenic products;
• fungal or bacterial infection;
• prolonged exposure to sunlight;
• wearing synthetic clothing.

Symptoms of dry eczema

Before treating dry eczema, a dermatologist at the PsorMak clinic conducts an external examination to identify the characteristic symptoms of the disease.The main ones are the following:

• severe itching and burning of the skin;
• increased dryness of the skin;
• severe peeling;
• Cracking of the skin.

Redness, inflammation and ulceration cause severe pain. Without timely treatment, dry eczema causes shallow fissures to widen and become even more painful. The accession of secondary infections complicates the course of the disease; purulent ulcers may appear on the body.Therefore, treatment must be started as early as possible in order to prevent the development of complications.

Types and stages of the disease

Treatment for dry eczema may differ depending on the stage of the disease. Stages of its development:

1. The appearance of tightness and a strong feeling of dryness of the skin, slight peeling.
2. Attachment of itching, causing severe discomfort. Due to the fact that the patient is constantly combing the skin, the likelihood of infection is high.
3. Formation of small cracks, which are covered with crusts. But there is no discharge from them, which is why eczema is called dry.
4. Deepening of cracks and formation of red spots, joining into large plaques.

Dry eczema can affect different parts of the body. On the hands, the disease occurs upon contact with aggressive substances. The most common injuries are the hands and forearms. The lower limbs are prone to eczema due to poor personal hygiene, fungal infections and uncomfortable shoes.Often, dryness and peeling occur between the fingers and even on the face, causing severe psychological discomfort to the patient.

Effective treatment of dry eczema

To prescribe an effective treatment for dry eczema, PsorMak specialists first carry out a comprehensive diagnosis. Of particular importance in it are external examination and the study of anamnesis, which helps to identify a hereditary predisposition. Scraping from the skin is mandatory to exclude fungal and bacterial infections.

Based on the results, the doctor decides how to cure dry eczema and develops an effective treatment regimen. In the PsorMak clinic, an integrated approach to the treatment of the disease is practiced, which has been showing good results for more than 20 years.

According to the author’s method of the chief physician of the Institute of Healthy Skin, non-hormonal treatment of dry eczema is most effective. It is based on the local application of an ointment with a natural composition, which has no side effects or contraindications, and therefore is approved for use even in childhood and during pregnancy.

So that you can be sure of the effectiveness of the treatment, in the appropriate section on the website, we present the results of therapy with photographs before and after the course. Remember, eczema is a chronic condition. It requires constant monitoring by a doctor and adherence to his recommendations, even after the symptoms subside. All this helps to achieve long-term remission and live a full life even with the existing diagnosis. To start fighting the disease, just sign up for a consultation at the PsorMak clinic.When registering from the site, all patients receive a 15% discount.

HOW TO BOOK AN APPOINMENT at the Institute of Healthy Skin “PsorMak”

1. Press the button you see below –

2. Fill in the fields in the form that appears. Be sure to check the correctness of the phone number so that our specialist can get through to you. After filling, click on the “Send” button.

3. Wait for a call from our specialist. He will answer any of your questions and agree on the date and time of your visit to PsorMak.

Initial admission includes:

• Visual examination , which will allow the specialist to get a general idea of ​​the condition of your skin and of the pathology itself.
• Taking anamnesis – finding out information about the development of the disease, living conditions, past illnesses, operations, injuries, chronic pathologies, allergic reactions, heredity, etc.Together with a general examination, this allows you to accurately diagnose and choose a method of treatment and / or prevention.

WHAT WILL BE after passing the initial admission

Our specialist, dermatologist:

• Will inspect .
• Will take a free analysis (scraping) .
• Diagnoses or clarifies the diagnosis of a disease .
• Will give detailed recommendations .
• Prepare a personalized treatment plan .
• Will write a prescription for drugs (if necessary) .

90,000 Red spots on the skin: causes and treatment

Red spots on the skin are found in people of different age groups, including babies. The rashes are distinguished by a wide variety. They usually differ not only in size and shape, but also in shade. It all depends on the reason for their appearance. In any case, seemingly harmless specks cannot be ignored.

Conditionally red rashes on the body can be classified into the following types:

• flat and convex;
• wet and dry;
• swollen and inflamed;
• vague and well-defined;
• smooth and rough;
• itchy and not uncomfortable;
• purple or reddish.

Localization of red spots is also varied. They most often appear on the arms and legs, back, neck, chest and face, less often on the genitals.By the location of the spots and their appearance, the specialist can understand what kind of ailment they are a symptom of.

The appearance of red spots on the skin makes many people panic. And for good reason, because they are a symptom of many diseases. Some of them do not pose a threat, while others can cause serious malfunction in the body if delayed with treatment. Most often, red spots indicate the development of skin or infectious diseases, less often – about a pathology of a mental nature.

There are several factors that can provoke the appearance of skin rashes:

• allergic reactions;
• infectious diseases;
• pathology of the heart and blood vessels;
• dermatological diseases;
• Autoimmune disorders;
• parasitic and bacterial infections;
• frequent stress;
• excitement;
• insect bites.

In some cases, red spots are the result of poor nutrition.

In the presence of severe rashes, it is not recommended to delay the visit to a specialist. Ignoring them can aggravate the disease or lead to the spread of the process, if there is a serious pathology.

In the event of single small spots, you can postpone the visit to the doctor. Dermatologists recommend observing such rashes first. In the absence of a tendency to disappear within two to three days, especially when their type changes, consultation with a specialist is required.

It is necessary to visit a doctor immediately if you have the following symptoms:

• severe itching in the area of ​​lesions;
• peeling on the surface of the spots;
• oozing;
• Rapid increase in size;
• painful sensations upon pressure and palpation;
• swelling;
• inflammatory process.

It is more advisable to entrust the exact establishment of the cause of red spots to a doctor – a dermatologist or dermatovenerologist.The specialist conducts a visual examination to find out the nature and localization of the spots, during the conversation, finds out the general history. To make an accurate diagnosis, a number of studies are prescribed: a general analysis of urine and blood, scraping from the affected skin, a test for the presence of an allergen and STDs, an ultrasound of internal organs. In some cases, they resort to additional diagnostic methods, which depend on the specific clinical picture and the alleged cause of the appearance of red spots.

Most often, red spots act as an external manifestation of an allergy.The rashes come in different sizes and shapes. Often they are accompanied by swelling and itching. The appearance of a general malaise in the form of weakness and chills is possible. Often, allergic rashes are observed in young children. Spots appear after the use of certain foods or medicines, the use of cosmetics. Sometimes rashes can provoke low temperatures. In this case, we are talking about the so-called cold allergy.

Erythema is characterized by reddening of skin areas, which appears after expansion of the capillary network and activation of blood circulation.Often this is a kind of skin response to emotional excitement or physical overload. Erythema is observed after some cosmetic procedures, such as masks and massage. In this case, the red spots are relatively large, but they quickly disappear and do not require treatment.

However, the appearance of persistent facial erythema should alert. It is characterized by spots that resemble bruises or bruises. Persistent erythema can lead to complications in the form of rosacea, so it is recommended to see a dermatologist.

One of its first symptoms is just a red, small-spotted rash all over the body with maximum localization on the back, buttocks, neck and face. On the second day, the number of spots is usually reduced. After three days, they completely disappear, leaving no traces.

This infectious pathology is accompanied by small red spots 1-2 mm in size. They appear after a sore throat occurs and are usually localized in the groin and lower abdomen. Due to the densely spaced spots, the skin appears reddened and inflamed.

Chickenpox is also of infectious origin. It begins with red spots, in the place of which bubbles up to 5 mm in size are later formed. After three days, they become covered with dry crusts. With chickenpox, both spots and bumps are present on the skin at the same time. If you comb them, they will leave behind small pits, the so-called pockmarks, which are difficult to get rid of.

In dermatology, it is known as microsporia. This is a contagious disease of fungal origin.Its causative agent is a mold of the genus Microsporum, which parasitizes in the stratum corneum of the epidermis. With this pathology, red spots have a rounded shape with a lighter center. Most often appear on the head and limbs.

The disease is also known as scaly roseola. Most often occurs in spring and autumn, when the body is usually weakened. Pathology is characterized by pink, crimson and red spots about 3-5 cm in diameter. Outwardly, they resemble plaques. Usually within a week other smaller ones appear near the first spot.The reasons for depriving Zhiber are associated with a decrease in immunity and the activity of the herpesvirus family in the body.

People call it weeping lichen. At the initial stage, it is characterized by the appearance of a light red rash that may itch. Later, weeping bubbles are formed, similar to dew drops. They quickly open up with the formation of pinpoint erosion, giving way to strong peeling and crusts.

Parasites in the process of their vital activity in the human body emit toxic substances, to which the skin reacts in the form of red spots.Their appearance may differ depending on the degree of intoxication. At the initial stage of helminthic invasion, small rashes are observed, accompanied by severe itching. Later, the spots turn into purulent boils.

Hypersensitivity of the skin to ultraviolet rays leads to photodermatitis. It is manifested by persistent redness, variegated spots all over the body, itching, and in some cases burning and even blisters. It can be both an independent disease and a symptom of any pathology, for example, systemic lupus erythematosus.In the first case, photodermatitis usually develops a day after exposure to the sun.

Considered one of the most common dermatological diseases. Psoriasis is of autoimmune origin. On its background, small pale red nodular spots with a smooth glossy surface appear. After a few days, the rash is covered with silvery white scales. Soon, they grow and merge into plaques of various sizes.

Treatment depends solely on the cause of the appearance of the rash, so it will be effective only in the case of competent and timely diagnosis, which is almost impossible without the help of a physician.Self-medication can aggravate the situation by making the course of the disease chronic.

The dosage and frequency of administration of medicines should be determined by the doctor.

In case of red spots, which are the result of an allergic reaction, therapy is usually reduced to the appointment of antihistamines (Suprastin, Tavegil, Loratadin, Parlazin), and in severe cases – systemic hormones. It is important to identify the allergen to exclude contact with it in the future.

Often, allergic dermatoses are associated with disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, diseases of the gallbladder and liver.In these cases, medications are prescribed that improve the functioning of the digestive system, including those containing lacto- and bifidobacteria. It is possible to ingest phytotherapeutic agents – herbal preparations based on chamomile flowers, rose hips, corn stigmas.

If red spots are the result of infectious diseases such as measles rubella, chickenpox and scarlet fever, the doctor prescribes antipyretic drugs (aspirin, Nurofen, Teraflu, paracetamol) and antihistamines. To get rid of itching, local remedies are prescribed – various ointments and creams, phyto-baths with celandine, St. John’s wort or nettle herb.The use of folk remedies is possible. To relieve itching, lotions and compresses with infusion of string, sage, chamomile, cucumber juice, decoction of oak bark are effective.

Treatment of a contagious disease such as ringworm requires systemic therapy. It is mandatory to prescribe antifungal agents for both external use and oral administration (Lamisil, Nizoral, Travocort, Clotrimazole, Griseofulvin). Perhaps the use of sulfur-salicylic or sulfur-pulp ointment, 3% salicylic acid.Vitamin therapy, immunomodulators and angioprotectors are also indicated. The latter improve microcirculation. These include “Curantil”, “Trental”, “Vazonit”.

Treatment of spots against the background of helminthic invasion implies, first of all, the mandatory intake of antiparasitic agents. It is possible to use antihistamines and enterosorbents (activated carbon, Lactofiltrum, Enterosgel, Polysorb).

Pink lichen requires a fairly long-term therapy. However, his treatment is still controversial.Some doctors believe that Zhiber’s lichen goes away on its own when the immune system is strengthened. Others consider it the right decision to provide medication to the body so that the disease does not drag on for 3-6 months. In this case, the treatment regimen includes antibiotics, antiviral and antihistamines, hormonal ointments with anti-inflammatory action.

During therapy, water procedures are limited, as they can lead to the dispersion of lichen spots throughout the body. This is facilitated by the use of gels and soaps, which greatly dry the skin.It is especially dangerous with pink lichen to lie in a hot bath, take a steam bath, stay in the open sun and visit the pool. If necessary, it is permissible to take a shower.

Spots on the skin: treatment, types, causes | Lekhar.ru

Spots on the skin are quite often a phenomenon that is observed in many people. Such formations on the body cause not only physical discomfort, but also aesthetic inconvenience. In most cases, it is very difficult to identify the cause of this condition, since this symptom can be the result of various diseases, as well as many other factors.

Types of spots

Formation data are divided into several types. According to the mechanism of appearance, they are subdivided into vascular and pigmented. Vascular, in turn, are:

• Inflammatory

• Non-inflammatory

• Edematous

• Hemorrhagic

Vascular inflammatory spots in the form of circles without clear boundaries appear against the background of vasodilatation, often called roseola. Such formations are dry, itchy, flaky, prone to swelling.As a rule, they arise due to allergies, dermatitis, childhood infectious diseases. Sometimes these blisters are the primary symptom of syphilis.

Non-inflammatory are often formed in case of nervous and emotional disorders, are distinguished by the absence of puffiness and peeling. Most often they appear in the form of purple and cyanotic circles on the chest, abdomen, face, and even on the eyelids. Also, spots on the skin often indicate disorders of the gastrointestinal tract.

Hemorrhagic formations are both inflammatory and non-inflammatory.Occur with hemorrhage in the tissues of the dermis. They are often caused by mechanical stress or a number of serious pathologies affecting the vessels. These spots on the body are very different, they often resemble a small rash, but sometimes they form outlines in the form of stripes, bruises, etc.

Edema resemble blisters, they are often a sign of allergies and a number of allergic diseases.

Pigmented spots are a consequence of a violation of skin pigmentation, such neoplasms are dark, often congenital.If a birthmark appears, freckles, lentigo, moles are pigmented formations. Sometimes black spots on the skin are associated with all sorts of diseases.

Causes of spots on the skin

Medical research confirms that the condition of the skin is directly related to the state of health. Therefore, formations on the body are often the result of many diseases and require urgent treatment, but besides this, there are also a number of factors that influence this situation. The main reasons for the appearance of this symptom are:

• Nervous system disorders

• Allergy

• Infectious pathologies

• Autoimmune diseases

Constant stress and strong feelings often become the reason for the development of various formations on the skin.Usually the spots are red, dry, sometimes itchy, itching develops.

Similar red itchy spots on the skin also appear with allergies. It must be remembered that it occurs with the use of certain foods, chemicals, dust, etc. Allergic diseases include eczema, various kinds of dermatitis.

Symptoms of many infectious diseases are just spots, in the form of sip, blisters, etc. The most common are viral infections characterized by rashes: rubella, smallpox, measles.Bacterial infections that manifest as spots on the body and redness include scarlet fever and many sexually transmitted diseases. Fungal infections such as thrush, and especially lichen, are accompanied by red growths on the body. Ringworm is the most dangerous: round spots are formed, localized mainly on the scalp.

Directly related to the appearance of formations on the skin are autoimmune diseases that occur against the background of disorders of the immune system.This group of diseases includes: lupus erythematosus, psoriasis, vitaligio, etc. As a rule, with these ailments, the redness is dry, often peeling and resembling a rash.

Localization of spots on the skin

Spots on the skin affect almost all parts of the body and inform a person about problems that have appeared in the body.

• Very often, various formations are localized on the abdomen and chest. One of the diseases characterized by rashes on these parts of the body is urticaria.With this ailment, itching, redness, small rash, in the form of small blisters appear on the skin. Red spots and blisters, especially on the abdomen, indicate a fungal infection such as lichen. There are several varieties of it. For example, pink spots on the skin occur with pink lichen. The formations are dry, in the form of medallions, but sometimes they appear as small blisters. With shingles, there is severe itching and flaking. In addition, redness on the abdomen is associated with diseases such as rubella, scarlet fever, psoriasis, prickly heat, etc.

• Similar formations on the hands indicate a variety of diseases and disorders in the body.Often, dermatitis, eczema, allergies contribute to their appearance

• Frequent occurrence – various spots on the legs. A common cause of their formation is a fungal disease such as mycosis. But, in addition to this ailment, this symptom also manifests itself against the background of diabetes mellitus, vasculitis, psoriasis, with some disorders of the digestive system

• Sometimes various kinds of spots are formed on the scalp. They often talk about seborrhea, psoriasis, and various disorders of the immune system.Also, the formation of rashes on the scalp provokes ringworm. The spots are pink, scaly and itchy

• Spots may also appear on the eyelids. Such formations are flaky and itchy, sometimes itching and burning are present. The most common causes of blemishes on the eyelids are urolithiasis, kidney problems, dermatitis, allergies, eczema. Among diseases affecting the eyes, this condition is usually caused by demodicosis and conjunctivitis

• With sexually transmitted diseases, all kinds of spots, rashes or blisters very often occur on the genitals.

Treatment of spots on the skin

Treatment of the above symptoms is carried out only after a complete examination and diagnosis. If it is installed, then a specific course of therapy is prescribed:

• For allergies, I use antihistamines

• Various kinds of eczema and dermatitis are treated with special ointments and creams. Also, local preparations are often used to treat redness on the eyelids

• If infectious diseases contribute to the formation of spots on the body, then the main treatment is to take antibacterial agents

• In order to put the nervous system in order and get rid of stress and overstrain, treat with the help of sedatives and drugs that strengthen the nerves.

In addition, the therapeutic course includes a vitamin complex, drugs that restore the body’s defenses. As an aid for spots on the skin, traditional medicine recipes are also used.

§ Any spots on the body should be alarming and a reason to visit a doctor. If you neglect this, you can exacerbate problems and earn serious complications.

Source: Lekar.ru

Pink lichen

Pink lichen is a skin disease, pale pink and slightly flaky spots.Most often it takes 1-2 months. But a longer period is not excluded, up to 6 months. Pink lichen can develop after suffering a cold or as a result of reduced immunity. Pityriasis rosea usually develops in spring or fall. It is viral or streptococcal. It occurs on the skin of the human body.

When you feel unwell or at a temperature, a spot appears on the body, which is called “maternal”

What provokes lichen pink :

There are several theories of lichen planus pink .Today, the most common point of view is that infections of bacterial and possibly viral origin play an initial role in the development of pathology. This is confirmed by some tests performed on patients. For example, with the intradermal administration of a vaccine containing antibodies from streptococcal bacteria, further allergic manifestations develop on the skin, which indicates the presence of this pathogen in the body.

If you are concerned about the symptoms described above, undergo examination at Clinic # 1.

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Also, very often lichen pink develops in acute respiratory diseases caused by influenza viruses, etc. Infectious agents are important only at the first stages of the development of pathology, then allergies join. It is allergic reactions that are mainly due to the skin manifestations of the disease.

Symptoms pink lichen :

A symptom of pink lichen at the initial stage is the appearance of an oval, round spot. This spot is called the maternal plaque. It looks like flaky skin, and after a week or two, a large number of such spots appear on the back, limbs, chest.

The rash is pinkish or pinkish yellow in color. As a rule, the rash is stronger on the shoulders, hips, back, and sides of the body.With pink lichen in the center of the rash, slight peeling appears, which looks like folded scales, similar to tissue paper, and figures are also formed like a medallion. After six weeks, the disease goes away on its own. Typically, lichen rosacea does not occur on the head, face, hands, or feet. Sometimes the affected areas may itch, itch.

Serious complications of this disease are rare. But if you wash the affected areas with water, smear the skin with an ointment containing sulfur, tar, then severe irritation is possible.Then the rashes acquire a bright red hue, severe itching begins.

Treatment pink lichen :

In case of a disease with pink lichen, you need to follow a certain regimen in which you can not wash the affected areas, use alcohol lotions, colognes, you can not wear woolen and synthetic clothes on your naked body. You cannot engage in heavy physical labor, since in this case the body sweats and lichen becomes wet. The same applies to exposure to high temperatures.

Antibiotics, corticosteroid ointments, antihistamines, topical water-zinc suspension (without alcohol) are taken. You should also follow a diet that should not contain foods such as coffee, chocolate, alcohol, salty, spicy, smoked and citrus fruits.

13 Weird Skin Spots You Should Check Out

Very important information!

Skin condition is related to general health. This means that rashes can appear with many internal diseases, writes Prevention.

The appearance of spots of any color and size on the body can be caused both by phenomena that are harmless to health and by quite serious disorders that require urgent help.

Skin problems can signal the presence of pathology, if the formation begins to itch, peel off, increase in size, quantity.

If such manifestations become more frequent, it is worth contacting a dermatologist in order to identify the causes and prescribe adequate treatment.

1) Cherry angioma.

russaquarius / Getty Images / prevention.com

It is a skin growth, a mole-like growth of small blood vessels or capillaries. This is the most common type of angioma.

Angiomas are benign tumors that result from overgrowth of capillaries.

Although these spider angiomas (telangiectasias) are rare, they can signal the development of a pathology, such as liver disease.

2) Psoriasis.

RUTH JENKINSON / Getty Images / prevention.com

Psoriasis, or lichen scaly, affects the skin, nails and joints. Usually, the bothersome disease manifests itself as a rash of pink or red plaques.

For some reason, the immune system gives the wrong signals to the cells of the upper layers of the skin, and they begin to divide intensively, forming plaques. In this case, the cells divide more often, and live less – hence the desquamation.

3) Follicular keratosis.

lavizzara / Getty Images / prevention.com

This is a keratinization disorder in which horny plugs fill the exit holes of the hair follicles.

Multiple small punctate follicular papules appear mainly on the shoulders, thighs and buttocks. Facial rashes can occur, especially in children.

Rashes are most pronounced during the cold season and sometimes diminish in summer. The disorder is mainly a cosmetic defect, but it can sometimes be accompanied by itching.

4) Papillomas.

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Papillomavirus infects cells in the upper layer of the skin – the epidermis.Because of this, papillary growths occur on any part of the body. They are the size of a poppy seed and even a cherry.

Papillomas vary in color from flesh to brown. You can catch papillomavirus after contact with its carrier or with people or animals that suffer from this disease.

The longer you “keep” papillomas on yourself, the more of them will appear on the body. The incubation period for this disease usually lasts several months.

5) Folliculitis.

Ocskaymark / Getty Images / prevention.com

Folliculitis is a skin disorder in which hair follicles become inflamed. Hair follicles are tiny pockets from which hair grows.

Usually the fault lies with a bacterial or fungal infection. First, small red or white bumps form around the hair follicles.

The infection may spread and the bumps may develop hard and non-healing sores.

6) Eczema.

Pan Xunbin / Getty Images / prevention.com

A typical manifestation of eczema is red spots and rashes on the skin, which cause burning and itching.

Scratching often results in thickened areas of the skin that crack easily. Acute eczema is characterized by itching, redness, and swelling of the skin, with the possible formation of watery blisters.

With eczema, there is a deterioration in the body’s defenses against infections, which easily leads to the occurrence of infectious inflammations.

7) Warts.

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Warts are a manifestation of infection, they are based on a special virus – the human papillomavirus. It does well in humid conditions.

That is, when your hands are constantly wet, it is much easier to get infected in such a situation. The most common are vulgar warts caused by type 1,2,4, flat warts are often associated with type 3 or 4.

8) Dermatofibroma.

American Academy of Dermatology / prevention.com

Dermatofibroma is a skin formation of various smooth round shapes and sizes of a dense consistency.

This disease can occur on the entire skin of the body, but most often dermatofibroma forms on the surfaces of the back, shoulders, feet and ankles.

Formations are single or multiple. If you squeeze the dermatofibroma on the sides with two fingers, then a small depression will appear in the center of it. When you try to move it from its place, it moves with the skin.

9) Pigmented spots.

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The deposition of melanin in the deep soybeans of the skin is hyperpigmentation.External manifestation: spots on the skin, which can be of different sizes and shapes, and even rise above the surface.

The shade is more intense – from medium brown to dark brown.

Such pigmentation can be quite noticeable and is a consequence of hormonal changes associated with the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, postpartum period, hormonal imbalance due to any disease.

10) Seborrheic keratosis.

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Skin disease characterized by the appearance of benign tumor-like neoplasms on the skin. Most often people over the age of 50 are sick.

Seborrheic keratomas grow slowly and vary in size. They can be round or oval in shape, red, brown or black. Externally, seborrheic keratomas look like “glued” formations.

11) Ringworm

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When the scalp is affected, the disease causes focal hair loss.The diagnosis of ringworm does not exist, it is an exclusively household formulation.

And there is a diagnosis of mycosis or dermatophytosis (scalp, smooth skin, etc.), since the cause of the disease is nothing more than a fungal infection.

Infection with trichophytosis occurs from person to person or through contaminated objects, microspores can be infected by contact with a sick animal.

12) Squamous cell carcinoma.

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This is the second most common form of skin cancer.A non-healing, scaly wound (plaque or nodule) appears, it gradually increases.

This form of skin cancer can spread to other internal organs, so surgical treatment is necessary.

Carcinoma most often appears on unprotected parts of the body from the sun: on the scalp, neck and upper waist.

13) Melanoma.

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A malignant tumor that affects human skin tissue is a type of skin cancer.

Melanoma arises from melanocytes in tissues that contain pigment (eg, skin, mucous membranes, eyes, or central nervous system). With widespread metastases, the prognosis is poor.

Be sure to take note of this useful information!

21 Aug, 2019

Stains on the body – causes and treatment || Medical center “Centromed”

If spots appeared on the body, then this indicates the presence of any pathological process in the skin caused by various reasons.Depending on this, the size and color of the rash can vary significantly.

The mechanism of development and the causes of the appearance of skin rashes

The formation and development of skin rashes develops according to 2 mechanisms – increased blood circulation in the dermis (hyperemia) or local pigmentation disorders. This is caused by various etiological factors, depending on which the color of the rash differs:

• Red spots on the body – indicate the presence of inflammation due to an allergic reaction, bacterial (streptoderma), viral (shingles) or fungal infection.They are accompanied by the parallel development of vesicles filled with a clear or purulent (yellow) fluid containing an infection.
• Brown spots on the body are the result of an increased content of melanin pigment (hyperpigmentation) as a result of an increase in its synthesis by cells under local exposure to ultraviolet rays or as a result of an inflammatory process.
• White spots on the body – appear due to local depigmentation (lack of pigment), as a result of vitiligo (hereditary genetic disorder of melanin synthesis) due to a lack of the amino acid tyrosine.

Also, depending on the etiological factor, this pathology may be accompanied by concomitant symptoms – itching, burning, peeling. In order to accurately determine the cause, you need to contact a narrow specialist. In Rostov-on-Don, a dermatologist at the clinic will conduct an accurate diagnosis based on symptoms and additional manifestations, instrumental and laboratory diagnostic methods. This will make it possible to begin adequate treatment aimed at eliminating the etiological factor of the onset and development of the disease.

Therapy

If spots appear on the body, treatment is carried out only after the cause is established. There are several main therapeutic measures aimed at eliminating the etiological factor and manifestations:

• Antibiotics – used in cases of established bacterial dermatitis to destroy microbial cells.
• Antivirals – prescribed systemically (in pill form) in case of shingles. Antiviral cream is applied directly to the rash.
• Preparations destroying fungus (fungicides) of local action in the form of an ointment or cream. With a fungal infection of a significant area of ​​the skin that does not respond to local therapy, systemic administration of drugs in the form of capsules or tablets is used.
• Replacement therapy with the amino acid tyrosine or enzymes that convert it into the pigment melanin – used for vitiligo.
• Avoid excessive sun exposure (exposure to direct sunlight).
• In case of residual effects after an inflammatory process, special cosmetic preparations are used for their early disappearance.

The appearance of formations on the skin of the body, regardless of their size, location and color, is a sign of the presence of a pathological process in the body. Therefore, for proper adequate treatment, it is worth contacting a specialist who, based on clinical data, examination results, will make a conclusion about the nature of the cause of the appearance of rashes.