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Rash with bumps on back: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Picture, and More

Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, Picture, and More

A malar rash, also known as a butterfly rash, may have many causes from sunburn to chronic diseases. It can often be cured.

Malar rash is a red or purplish facial rash with a “butterfly” pattern. It covers your cheeks and the bridge of your nose, but usually not the rest of the face. The rash can be flat or raised.

A malar rash can occur with many different diseases and conditions, from sunburn to lupus. It’s most often seen in people with rosacea.

It may be scaly and sometimes itchy, but it doesn’t have bumps or blisters. It may also be painful.

Sunlight triggers this rash. It can appear on other parts of the body that are exposed to the sun if you’re sensitive to sunlight. The rash may come and go, and it can last for days or weeks at a time.

Many conditions may cause a malar rash:

  • Rosacea, also called adult acne. Rosacea’s rash is also characterized by pimples and enlarged blood vessels.
  • Lupus. A rare condition with a variety of symptoms, it can result in other types of rashes.
  • Seborrheic dermatitis. With this condition, the rash could occur on your face and other areas. It also involves scaling of your skin and scalp.
  • Photosensitivity. If you’re sensitive to sunlight or get too much sun, you may have a sunburn that looks like a malar rash.
  • Erysipelas. Caused by Streptococcus bacteria, this infection can lead to a painful malar rash. It may also involve the ear.
  • Cellulitis. This is a type of a bacterial infection affecting the deeper skin layers.
  • Lyme disease. In addition to a rash, this disease, resulting from another type of bacterial infection, may also produce flu symptoms, joint pain, and many other problems.
  • Bloom syndrome. This inherited chromosomal disorder has multiple additional symptoms, including skin pigmentation changes and mild intellectual disability.
  • Dermatomyositis. This connective tissue disorder also causes skin inflammation.
  • Homocystinuria. In addition to a malar rash, this genetic disorder may lead to vision problems and intellectual disability.

Rosacea is the most common cause of a malar rash.

It’s also very common in the population. About 16 million Americans are estimated to have rosacea.

Usually the rash is triggered by:

  • stress
  • spicy food
  • hot drinks
  • alcohol

With rosacea, you may have:

  • redness that spreads to your forehead and chin
  • visible broken spider veins on your face
  • raised patches of facial skin called plaques
  • thickened skin on your nose or chin
  • acne breakouts
  • red and irritated eyes

The cause of rosacea isn’t known. Scientists are investigating possible factors, including:

  • an immune system reaction
  • a gut infection
  • a skin mite
  • the skin protein cathelicidin

About 66 percent of people with lupus develop a skin disease. Malar rash is present in 50 to 60 percent of people with systemic lupus erythematosus, also known as acute cutaneous lupus. Lupus is a somewhat rare condition, likely underdiagnosed due to its complexity.

Other forms of lupus skin disease include:

  • discoid lupus, which causes round, disk-shaped sores with raised edges, usually on the scalp and face.
  • subacute cutaneous lupus, which appears as red scaly lesions with red edges, or red ring-shaped lesions
  • calcinosis, which is a buildup of calcium deposits under the skin that may leak a whitish liquid
  • cutaneous vasculitis lesions, which cause small reddish-purple spots or bumps on the skin

A malar rash can have many different causes, and there’s no simple way to tell if your rash is a sign of lupus. Lupus is a complex disease that affects each person differently. Symptoms may start slowly or suddenly. The symptoms also vary widely in severity.

Additional symptoms may include:

  • rashes of varying types
  • mouth, nose, or scalp sores
  • skin sensitivity to light
  • arthritis in two or more joints
  • lung or heart inflammation
  • kidney problems
  • neurological problems
  • abnormal blood tests
  • immune system disorder
  • fevers

Having a few of these symptoms doesn’t mean that you have lupus.

Diagnosis of a malar rash can be a challenge because there are many possible causes. Your doctor will take a medical history and review all your symptoms to rule out other possibilities.

If your doctor suspects lupus or a genetic disease, they will order blood and urine tests.

Specialized tests for lupus look for:

  • low white blood cell count, low platelets, or low red blood cells, which indicate anemia
  • antinuclear antibodies, which are usually a probable sign of lupus
  • levels of antibodies for double-stranded DNA and red blood cells
  • levels of other autoimmune antibodies
  • levels of proteins that have immune functions
  • kidney, liver, or lung damage from inflammation
  • heart damage

You may also need a chest X-ray and echocardiogram to look for heart damage. A diagnosis of lupus depends on many test results, not just one marker.

Treatment for malar rash depends on the severity of your rash and the suspected cause. Because sunlight is often a trigger for malar rash in general, the first line of treatment is to limit your sun exposure and use sunscreen rated at SPF 30 or more. If you have to be in the sun. wear a hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing in addition to sunscreen. Learn more about choosing a sunscreen.

Other treatments depend on the cause of the rash.

Rosacea

Rosacea malar rash treatment may include antibiotics, special skin creams to heal and repair your skin, and possible laser or light treatments.

Bacterial infection

If you have a bacterial infection, you’ll be prescribed a topical antibiotic. For systemic bacterial infections — that is, infections affecting the entire body — you may need oral or intravenous antibiotics.

Lupus

Lupus malar rash treatment depends on the severity of your symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe:

  • steroidal creams for your rash
  • topical immunomodulators, such as tacrolimus ointment (Protopic)
  • nonsteroidal drugs to help with inflammation
  • antimalarials such as hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), which has been found to suppress inflammation
  • immunosuppressive drugs, in more severe cases, to treat the rash and prevent its recurrence
  • thalidomide (Thalomid), which has been found to improve lupus rashes that don’t respond to other treatments

Home remedies

You can take steps to keep your face comfortable while the rash heals.

  • Wash your face with a mild, unscented soap.
  • Apply small amounts of mild oils, cocoa butter, baking soda, or aloe vera gel to the rash to soothe the skin.

A malar rash may have many causes from sunburn to chronic diseases.

Rashes caused by bacterial infections can be cured. On the other hand, rosacea and lupus are both chronic diseases, for which there currently aren’t any cures. Rashes from these conditions improve with treatment, but can flare up again.

See your doctor if you have a malar rash so that they can determine the underlying cause and start you on the right treatment.

Diaper Rash: Causes, Symptoms & Diagnosis

Diaper Rash: Causes, Symptoms & Diagnosis

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Medically reviewed by George Krucik, MD, MBA — By David Heitz on February 27, 2020

What Is Diaper Rash?

Diaper rash is an irritation of the skin. It occurs mostly in babies, and it is a common condition. In the United States, it affects up to 35 percent of children under two years old. Most children suffer from it at least once before they are toilet trained (Medscape, 2012).

Also known as diaper dermatitis, diaper rash causes uncomfortable burning and redness on areas of the skin that come into contact with and rub against a diaper.

Types of Diaper Rash

This article focuses on common diaper rash, or diaper dermatitis, which responds to basic treatments including frequent diaper changes.

Other types of skin rashes may be agitated by wearing a diaper. These rashes include other forms of dermatitis, psoriasis, and rashes caused by conditions such as syphilis, HIV, and bullous impetigo.

What Causes Diaper Rash?

Diaper rash occurs when someone sits too long in a soiled diaper. Diarrhea can exacerbate the problem. Sometimes a child will first experience diaper rash when beginning solid food or taking antibiotics. Breast-fed children can develop diarrhea from what is passed on by their mother’s diet.

Babies soil diapers every three to four hours, so it’s important to keep them changed. The acidic nature of human waste allows bacteria and yeast to thrive. All of these elements can irritate the skin.

Sometimes, diapers that are too tight or that don’t fit properly will cause chafing. Chemicals from detergents or other products that touch the baby’s skin, including the diapers themselves, can cause irritation.

Who Is at Risk for Diaper Rash?

As many as one in three children develop diaper rash. Breast-fed babies are at lower risk, due to reduced acidity in their diets. All infants and toddlers who wear diapers can develop diaper rash. Usually, diaper rash does not become a problem until the age of three weeks. Risk is highest for babies between three months and one year old.

Occasionally, diaper rash is passed from infant to infant.

What Are the Symptoms of Diaper Rash?

Diaper rash causes the skin to look red and irritated. Affected skin may also feel warm to the touch. Parents and caregivers should call a doctor if a bright red diaper rash lasts longer than 48 hours or is accompanied by a strong odor of urine, which may indicate dehydration (Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, 2012).

Other times to seek medical help include when rashes form blisters or become weepy, or if the baby develops a fever (Mayo Clinic, 2012).

How Is Diaper Rash Diagnosed?

Diaper rash is common. Most people who care for children know it when they see it. Sometimes, it’s still a good idea to call a doctor, who will offer an expert opinion based on prescriptions and other baby items.

Diaper rashes caused by yeast infections sometimes occur when an infant takes antibiotics. Those kinds of rashes will not get better without physician-prescribed ointment.

When you speak to your doctor, be prepared to discuss brands of diapers, lotions, detergents, and other household items your baby comes into contact with.

Treatments for Diaper Rash

Research published in the Scientific World Journal in 2012 suggests that creams made of plant derivatives, including aloe and calendula, help fight diaper rash (Panahi, et al., 2012). In particular, calendula fights inflammation and bacteria, two of the biggest problems with diaper rash.

Topical creams and ointments are commonly used to treat diaper rash. They include:

  • hydrocortisone to reduce swelling
  • antifungal or antibiotic creams to combat infections (a doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics as well)
  • zinc oxide
  • creams and ointments containing steroids should be taken only at a doctor’s recommendation.

Home Care

It’s usually easy to treat occasional bouts of diaper rash with over-the-counter medications and smart practices at home. The best prevention is also the best cure: frequent diaper changes.

  • Make sure your child’s diapers fit properly and not too tightly. The diaper should allow air to get to sensitive areas. Try letting the baby go without diapers during naps.
  • Don’t use a lot of soap or wipes with alcohol or perfumes. These can cause drying, which can make symptoms worse.
  • Don’t use talcum powder. It can be harmful to babies when inhaled.

Prognosis

Diaper rash generally clears up with home remedies in a day or two. If it doesn’t, call a doctor.

Prevention

Diaper rash can lead to fussy, miserable babies. It is usually preventable if you follow these tips:

  • Wash your child’s buttocks with water during each diaper change. Pat dry with a soft towel. Don’t use wipes containing alcohol or perfumes.
  • Keep diapers loose. Consider letting your child go without diapers as often as possible.
  • Keep zinc oxide and petroleum jelly on hand. They’re important home remedies in the battle against diaper rash.

Last medically reviewed on February 27, 2020

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  • Baby

How we reviewed this article:

Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

  • Diaper Rash. (2012, May 15). Medscape Reference. Retrieved August 12, 2013, from 
    emedicine.medscape.com/article/801222-overview
  • Diaper Rash. (2010, July). Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Retrieved Aug. 12, 2013, from h 
    ttp://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/d/diaper-rash/
  • Diaper rash. (2013, July 13). Mayo Clinic. Retrieved Aug. 12, 2013, from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/diaper-rash/DS00069
  • Panahi, Y., et. al. (2012, April 19). A Randomized Comparative Trial on the Therapeutic Efficacy of Topical Aloe vera and Calendula officinalis on Diaper Dermatitis in Children. Scientific World Journal. Retrieved Aug. 12, 2013, from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3346674/?report=classic

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

Current Version

Feb 27, 2020

Written By

David Heitz

Edited By

Frank Crooks

Medically Reviewed By

George Krucik, MD, MBA

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Medically reviewed by George Krucik, MD, MBA — By David Heitz on February 27, 2020

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What does a rash on the body mean: classification, description

October 11, 2021

Skin rash: classification, descriptions Earlier, we have repeatedly talked about skin diseases, allergic reactions to external stimuli, dermatitis, neoplasms. We also talked about skin rashes, but today we decided to supplement the topic. Classification of the rash, morphology, localization and what does a rash on the body mean. Expert diagnosis and treatment of skin rashes: Krivoy Rog, Dermatology Center Mediton Clinic!

To standardize the appearance of on the surface of the skin, we have developed this material. It includes a general classification, rash terminology, primary and secondary morphology of rashes by type and configuration of lesions, a description of the texture of formations, localization on the body, clarifications by colors and shades, and possible skin lesions after a rash. Also given are examples of illnesses that could mean a rash!

Body rash: type of lesion

• Papules – rashes that are easily palpable with fingers. Their size is often up to 10 mm. Papules can mean seborrheic keratosis, lichen planus, warts, acne;
• Tubercles – cavityless elements up to 5-10 mm, occurring in the deep layers of the dermis. The tubercle can change up to an ulcer, leaving a scar after healing;
• Blister – a rash without a cavity, skin or pink in color, of various shapes and sizes. A blister occurs after insect bites, contact with poisonous plants, as a reaction to external stimuli. Most often disappears within an hour or several, the formation is accompanied by itching, burning;
• Roseola – an element of a rash of round or irregular shape, up to 2-5 mm in size, not embossed. Roseola can be a sign of a skin infection;
• Hemorrhage – the result of hemorrhage inside the skin during the destruction of blood vessels, may be a reaction to the development of the inflammatory process, occur as a result of mechanical damage;
• Petechiae – pinpoint hemorrhages caused by infections and platelet pathologies;
Purpura, hemorrhage: dermatologist’s consultation • Purpura is a large hemorrhage, often palpable. Causes: sepsis, allergic skin reactions, toxic effects, vascular pathologies;
• Spots – rashes of red, white and brown, non-palpable, of various shapes and sizes. Flat moles, freckles, rubella spots, allergic reactions, wine stains;
• Nodules are fairly firm papules that develop within the dermis and subcutaneous fat. These can be fibromas, lipomas, as well as various intradermal cysts;
• Plaques – rashes on the surface of the skin, which can protrude above its surface, as well as sink, of various sizes, usually more than 10 mm. Plaques on the skin develop with granuloma annulare, often a sign of psoriasis – shiny, silvery plaques;
• Vesicles – cavity elements of rashes, which are filled with liquid inside. The size of the bubbles is up to 8-10 mm, the color is transparent, yellow. The formation of vesicles on the skin is characteristic of dermatitis herpetiformis, herpetic infections;
• Vesicles – cavity elements with liquid inside, larger than 10-12 mm. Education is characteristic of mechanical damage to the skin – blisters occur with burns, but also formations are a sign of allergic dermatitis, pemphigus vulgaris;
• Pustules are small blisters containing pus. Pustules are characteristic of various infectious skin lesions;
• Urticaria – a rash that develops against the background of swelling, an allergic reaction, is characterized by redness and a slight elevation above the general surface of the skin. Urticaria can be a reaction to medications, contact with insects and poisonous plants, be a sign of a cold allergy;
• Scales – accumulations of small particles of squamous epithelium, yellow in color or skin tones, develop along with itching and scaling. Scales are a sign of dermatological diseases: chronic dermatitis, psoriasis, ringworm, seborrheic dermatitis, others;
• Scales and crusts on the skin: diagnosis and treatment Crusts and crusts are formations consisting of pus, blood, blood serum or a mixture of dried substances that form on the surface of rashes and other skin lesions during infectious lesions and inflammatory processes;
• Erosions – occur with partial or complete loss of the epidermis, more often observed with dermatomycosis, inflammatory processes, after mechanical damage;
• Ulcers – occur when erosion develops or when part of the dermis is lost. The cause of development can be mechanical damage, in particular, with vascular damage, infectious and inflammatory processes;
• Pustule – an element of a rash with a cavity filled with pus. Pustules are formed with folliculitis, acne, numerous inflammations and infectious lesions;
• Eschar – a formation formed on the surface of the skin after the contents of pustules or vesicles have dried, consisting of blood, pus, serous discharge;
• Depigmentation – discoloration of certain areas of the skin, either temporary or permanent. The reason is a decrease in the amount of melanin as a result of primary rashes;
• Hyperpigmentation – darkening of skin areas, change in the usual color, which is associated with an increase in the amount of melanin. Causes: contact reactions, allergies to medications and cosmetics, metabolic disorders, hormonal failure, pathologies of internal organs and vital systems;
• Lichenification – the effect of compaction and thickening of the skin with a certain localization, with a pigmented surface, enhanced skin pattern. There is roughness, dryness, peeling, itching is possible. Lichenification develops against the background of chronic eczema, with neurodermatitis;
• Dyschromia – a violation of skin color, pigmentation, which develops after the healing of rashes;
• Atrophy – severe thinning of the skin down to the appearance of tissue paper. The skin is wrinkled, thin and dry. The problem is associated with natural aging, skin reactions to the sun or external preparations, neoplastic skin diseases!

Eruption configuration, texture and color of the rash

Skin rash: localization, size, color Linear rashes, ring-shaped rashes, target-like rashes in accordance with the name, nummular – rounded formations on the skin, mesh – with a lacy pattern of various interpretations, serpigin ozny rashes – linear grouping with ramifications!

The texture of the rash contributes to the decision on the primary diagnosis during examination and palpation, since many skin pathologies have a characteristic structure, relief:
• Induration – skin with poor sensitivity, changed externally, thickened in deep layers;
• Verrucous eruptions – bumpy surface, uneven and rough;
• Xanthomas – formations with a minimal increase in skin relief, white, yellow or mixed waxy;
• Eruptions with an umbilical depression – with a depression closer to the center of the formation;
• Lichenification – increased skin pattern, hardening and thickening of the skin!

By localization, the rash affects all parts of the body. Depending on the disease, a rash is found on the arms and legs, on the face and neck, rashes on the back and sides, as well as shoulders, a rash in the groin, rashes and irritation in the armpits, in the scalp area.

The color and shade of the rash also matter, and specialists always pay attention to them:
• Red rash and spots – infections, inflammatory processes;
• Orange skin – excess carotene;
• Yellow skin – possible jaundice, xanthoma or pseudoxanthoma;
• Gray skin, silvery hue of rashes – reaction to medicines, possible accumulation of metals in the skin;
• Black skin color, rashes, formations – nevi, melanoma, infections, fungal infections!

Rash: treatment of rashes in Krivoy Rog

Dermatitis, allergic skin reaction, ringworm, itchy rash, lichen, formation of abscesses and pimples, acne, plaques on the skin, rash on the body in the form of vesicles – dermatological diseases that require close attention.