Rare skin disorders are often very perplexing to patients. Patients often search for information about how to diagnose the symptoms they have. They may have a rash or lesion on the skin they have never seen on anyone else before. The symptoms may come on suddenly or increase quickly. Rare skin disorders cause a lot of anxiety in patients. Until a doctor's appointment is available, patients typically are very fretful about the symptoms of unusual skin disorders.
Symptoms of Rare Skin Disorders: Vitiligo, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, Sweet Syndrome
Step 1
The diagnosis of vitiligo involves inspection of white patches on the skin. The patches may appear everywhere on the body, including the face. This rare skin disorder is found in only 1 to 2% of the world's population; its symptoms arise due to the death of melanocytes in the skin. Vitiligo may cause immense emotional distress; some patients require counseling to handle the emotions that arise as white patches appear on the skin. Vitiligo typically appears prior to age 20. It may cover large portions of the body. The cause of vitiligo is unknown; a genetic link is suspected and the disorder may also be triggered by an unusually stressful event. Vitiligo cannot be cured.
Step 2
Diagnosing Stevens-Johnson syndrome involves observation of a vivid red or purple rash of lesions that may spread rapidly. The rash may appear on the skin or the mucous membranes. A rash on the mucous membranes may severely limit food intake. This rare skin disease is a skin hypersensitivity disorder. Patients may be very alarmed when they notice the blisters. Typical symptoms may include hives, skin pain, red or purple rash or lesions, fever, body aches and blisters. The exact cause of Stevens-Johnson syndrome is unknown; however, it may be linked to cocaine use, a malignancy, an infection or medication use. This disorder is usually diagnosed in the winter and early spring. Symptoms of lesions may last for up to three weeks. Stevens-Johnson syndrome typically occurs in patients aged 20 to 40.
Step 3
The diagnosis of Sweet syndrome is performed via blood test or by taking a cell sample. Sweet syndrome (acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis) causes vivid red, painful skin lumps that increase in diameter and may last for several weeks. The lumps may appear on the neck, face or back. Other symptoms associated with Sweet syndrome may include pinkeye, fever, exhaustion and body aches. This skin disorder is more common in women (aged 35 to 50) than men; its exact cause is unknown. It may be triggered by leukemia, cancer, an illness, medication use or pregnancy.
Step 4
Write down a list of all symptoms of any new skin disorder. Keep a log of when the symptoms appeared, the appearance of any rash or blisters and the size of the lesions. Note if the symptoms change or start to appear in more places on the body. Also write down any unusual occurrences before the symptoms arose, such as starting a new medication, being diagnosed with a new disorder, unusual stress or unusual life events.
Step 5
Inform a friend or relative of your unusual skin symptoms so someone knows to check in with you to ensure you are okay. Sometimes skin disorders may increase in severity very rapidly, so it is important to keep a close eye on symptoms and reach out for help as needed if a visit to the emergency room is required.
Tips and Warnings
- Seek medical care immediately upon spotting unusual skin symptoms. Measure the size of the rash and log where it appears so you may inform the doctor of any change in size or location of the rash or lesions.
- Obtain a medical appointment or visit the emergency room immediately if skin symptoms are severe or spreading rapidly.
Things You'll Need
- Doctor's appointment to diagnose symptoms of a skin disorder
