The skin is the largest organ in the body and is responsible for protection from the external environment, temperature regulation and waste removal. The skin is part of the integumentary system and is composed of three layers: the epidermis, the dermis and the subcutaneous layer. The epidermis is the top layer of skin and the layer that is most often affected by rashes and skin disorders.
Shingles
Shingles is characterized by a rash or blisters that form in one place on one side of the body, usually around the midsection. Shingles are caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus that causes chickenpox. Shingles affects those who have already had chickenpox. During the initial infection, the virus moves into the nervous system and is dormant for a period of time. When the virus reactivates, shingles appear, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Along with rash and blisters, other symptoms include burning, tingling, numbness and itching. Antiviral drugs are used to treat shingles and the rash usually disappears in three to five weeks.
Scabies
Scabies is a rash that appears as an allergic response to an infection with mites. The mites enter the skin and lay eggs, which mature in 21 days, according to Medline Plus. In young children, the rash appears on the head, neck, shoulders, hands and feet. In older individuals, the rash appears on the hands, wrists, genitals and abdomen. In addition to a visible rash, symptoms of rabies include itching, sores and thin lines on the skin. Scabies is treated with medicated creams that can be applied directly to the rash. Because scabies is contagious, those with regular contact with the infected individual, such as family members or sexual partners, may also require treatment.
Miliaria
Miliaria, commonly called heat rash, is a rash that occurs when sweat ducts are blocked and perspiration cannot evaporate and becomes trapped under the skin. Miliaria is most often caused by extreme heat, intense exercise, medication and certain fabrics. In babies, miliaria can develop as a result of sweat glands that have not fully developed. In adults, miliaria is usually seen in skin folds and in babies it is spread over the body. Symptoms of miliaria vary, but in general consist of small, clear bumps that break easily, red bumps, itchiness, decreased sweating where the rash appears and a prickly feeling, according to the Mayo Clinic. Mild cases of miliaria do not require treatment and can be cleared up by avoiding excessive heat and exercise, wearing lightweight clothes or avoiding certain medications. More severe cases of miliaria can be treated with topical anti-itch creams and topical steroids.
