A group of spots or an area of red, inflamed skin. A rash is usually temporary and is only rarely a sign of a serious underlying problem. It may be accompanied by itching or fever.
Rashes are classified according to whether they are localized (affecting a small area of skin) or generalized (covering the entire body), and the type of spots. A bullous rash has large blisters, a vesicular rash has small blisters, and a pustular one has pus-filled blisters. A macular rash consists of spots level with the surrounding skin and discernible from it by a difference in colour or texture. Nodular and papular rashes are composed of small, raised bumps.
Rashes are the main sign of many infectious diseases (such as chickenpox), and are a feature of many skin disorders, such as eczema and psoriasis. They may also indicate an underlying medical problem, such as the rashes of scurvy or pellagra, which are caused by vitamin deficiency. The rashes of urticaria or contact dermatitis may be caused by an allergic reaction. Drug reactions, particularly to antibiotic drugs, are a common cause of rashes.
A diagnosis is based on the appearance and distribution of the rash, the presence of any accompanying symptoms, and the possibility of allergy (for example, to drugs). Any underlying cause is treated if possible. An itching rash may be relieved by a lotion, such as calamine, or an antihistamine drug.
n. a temporary eruption on the skin, usually typified by discrete red spots or generalized reddening, that may be accompanied by itching. A rash may be a local skin reaction or the outward sign of a disorder affecting the body. Rashes commonly occur with infectious diseases, such as chickenpox and measles.
A common form of irritant contact DERMATITIS in the nappy area in babies under one year old. Wetting of the skin by urine, abrasion, and chemical changes due to faecal contamination all play a part. Good hygiene and use of disposable absorbent nappies have much reduced its incidence. An ointment containing a barrier, such as titanium dioxide, may help; other medications such as mild CORTICOSTEROIDS or antibiotics should be used very cautiously and only under the guidance of a doctor, as harmful effects may result – especially from overuse.... nappy rash
(nappy rash) a red skin rash within the napkin area, usually caused by chemical irritation (ammoniacal *dermatitis) or infection with *Candida. Ammoniacal dermatitis is caused by skin contact with wet soiled nappies, the stool bacteria reacting with urine to form irritant ammonia. Treatment involves exposure to air, application of barrier creams, and frequent nappy changes. Candidal nappy rash is treated with antifungal creams. Other causes of napkin rash include eczema and psoriasis.... napkin rash
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