Exposure to viruses, bacteria, bites and irritants can all cause changes in the skins appearance, color and texture. Many rashes go away on their own, while others require treatment by a medical professional.
Psoriasis
A disease most likely transmitted genetically; psoriasis is a lifelong inflammatory skin and joint problem, occurring in 1 to 3 percent of the population, according to Dr. Thomas Habif's book, "Clinical Dermatology." In psoriasis, the skin cells reproduce too fast, causing a build-up of cells that form lesions. Currently, no cure exists for psoriasis. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, or NPF, during psoriasis exacerbation, the rash develops as red, inflamed areas covered by white scales and can occur on various parts of the body including the scalp.
Psoriasis usually begins in childhood following some event that precipitates the disease. For many children, the first episode erupts after a Streptococcal infection, notes Habif. Guttate psoriasis rash, commonly developing before age 30 and in children, appears as small tear-shaped raised lesions with the typical white scale-like covering, says Medline Plus. Experiencing stress may trigger or cause the disease to flare-up. Topical treatments are frequently a good starting place for physicians when treating psoriasis. Topicals, such as steroids, attempt to slow down cell reproduction and reduce inflammation. Steroids are the most common topical prescribed, noted the NPF.
Valley Fever
A fungal infection, known as valley fever, is caused by the organism coccidioides that lives in soil from certain areas, according to MayoClinic.com. Humans breathe in the microorganism when the soil is disturbed by construction, farming or strong winds. When symptoms do appear, then tend to develop between one and three weeks from the time of exposure. Initially, flu-like symptoms appear, such as chest discomfort or pain, fever and cough. A red, spotted rash appears as one of the initial symptoms. The red bumps are painful and may eventually turn a brown color. According to MayoClinic.com the rash usually appears on the chest, arms, lower legs and back; it may have the appearance of pimples. The course of the disease can vary, with some people developing nodules in their lungs and others feeling tired with joint pain, says MayoClinic.com. The organism is known to thrive in alkaline desert soil. Most people who develop the infection don't require treatment, just bedrest and fluids. If the case is severe, antifungal medications may be prescribed, according to MayoClinic.com.
Scarlet Fever
Scarlet fever, or scarlatina, is a highly contagious disease caused by group A Streptococcus, the same toxin found in strep throat, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC. The rash associated with scarlet fever usually appears in children under the age of 18. The rash begins as tiny red bumps, usually on the chest and stomach and can spread throughout the body. The rash feels like sandpaper and looks like a sunburn, according to the CDC. Another unique feature is a strawberry-like tongue. Fever, sore throat and swollen glands are other common symptoms. The doctor will prescribe antibiotics to treat the disease.
References
- "Clinical Dermatology"; Thomas Habif, MD; 2009
- National Psoriasis Foundation: About Psoriasis
- Medline Plus: Psoriasis: Guttate
- Mayo Clinic: Valley Fever
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention: Scarlet Fever
