Rashes (Allergic, Infectious & Autoimmune)

When to See a Dermatologist for a Rash

Seek evaluation if your rash:

• Appears suddenly and spreads rapidly
• Is accompanied by fever, joint pain, or difficulty breathing
• Does not resolve within 1–2 weeks
• Is painful, blistering, or affecting mucous membranes
• You suspect may be related to a new medication

Common Rash Types We Diagnose & Treat

• Drug reactions — morbilliform (measles-like), urticarial, or fixed drug eruptions
• Viral exanthems — roseola, rubella, hand-foot-mouth, parvovirus B19
• Autoimmune — systemic lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, vasculitis
• Allergic contact — see also Dermatitis page
• Pityriasis rosea — self-limited herald patch followed by Christmas-tree distribution

Treatment Approach

Treatment is guided by the underlying cause. It may include antihistamines, corticosteroids (topical or systemic), antivirals, or referral to rheumatology for autoimmune evaluation.