How does the Orlando Dermatology Center define & diagnose Rashes?
Skin rashes caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal etiologies are common presenting complaints to primary care clinics, emergency departments, and dermatologists. Although many presenting symptoms overlap, discrete identifiable factors for each disease can help aid in diagnosis and treatment. For example, herpes zoster (shingles) is a dermal and neurologic disorder caused by reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV).
Immunodeficiency/immunosuppression, radiation, trauma, medications, stress, or other infections have been proposed as triggers. Erythema, regional lymphadenopathy, and grouped herpetiform vesicles then develop. The cutaneous findings are typically unilateral and usually do not cross the midline.
Poison Ivy
Allergic Contact Dermatitis (Poison Ivy)
Psoriasis
Infection of the skin can cause a rash as well. Bacteria, fungi, and viruses can all affect the skin. Bacterial diseases generally appear as pustules, tender crusted areas, or in ring like patches (Lyme disease).
Erythema Migrans (Lyme Disease)
Fungal diseases such a ringworm or athletes foot are also very common.
Tinea Corporis (Ringworm)
Viral diseases can present as rashes, either directly such a herpes, chicken pox, and shingles, or indirectly as a rash appearing during a viral illness, such as roseola.
Herpes Zoster (Shingles)
Medications are a frequent cause of rash. Basically, any medication can cause a rash to develop in any person. Common medications that cause a rash include antibiotics, and medications for high blood pressure and cholesterol.
Rarely, cancer of the skin can present as a skin rash. Superficial skin cancers, such as basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma can present as scaly pink patches. Lymphoma of the skin can present as a scaly rash on the body.
Mycosis Fungoides (Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphoma)
Many of these rashes look the same to the untrained eye, therefore it is important to consult a dermatologist, a specialist in this area, when you have a skin condition that is not going away.
Treating Rashes at the Orlando Dermatology Center with Dr. Blatnoy:
Skin rashes are first diagnosed by Dr. Blatnoy and his experienced staff. Following diagnosis of the source and cause of the rash, proper treatments are administered such as steroid shots, creams, or even over-the-counter recommendations for mild rashes.