Question & Answer

Q: Where should I go to have laser procedures performed?

A: Patients who want to look younger have a confusing array of options, including where to go for cosmetic procedures. I talk about this topic at greater length here, but, essentially, this is what I recommend evaluating prior to undergoing a cosmetic laser procedure.

Q: Is the scabies rash contagious?

The rash itself is not contagious, but the mites that cause scabies can be transferred from person to person. Passing scabies to another person requires skin-to-skin contact. There have been authentic cases of scabies being transferred through handshakes, but it typically takes longer, closer personal contact to transfer scabies. People living in crowded conditions and shelters during times of poverty are most at risk.

Q: I have a red, itchy rash under my armpit. I work out a lot. Could it be from sweating?

It is difficult to say exactly what is causing the itching you are experiencing without seeing the rash in person. However, there are a few possibilities of what commonly cause an itchy rash in an individual’s armpits.

Q: Can antibiotics cause a rash?

Yes. Antibiotics, such as penicillin and doxycycline, can cause rash. These rashes are seen as a symmetrical outbreak of red, blotchy, slightly raised welts (wheals) and solid, raised spots (papules). This rash will typically begin on the trunk or back and spread to involve additional areas of the body. 

Q: How can I prevent scabies?

The only way to prevent scabies is to avoid contact with any persons who are infected with scabies. If you suspect a rash on your body may be scabies, see a physician who can identify the clinical pattern of scabies. A physician may attempt to scrape off the mite and look at it through a microscope to make a definite diagnosis. There is no blood test for scabies. Some drugs and medicines can also make people more susceptible to scabies.

Q: How can I tell if a skin rash is dangerous, or a sign of a dangerous condition?

If your rash is accompanied with fever or chills, you should see a physician. It may be something as simple as a 24-hour virus, or it could indicate something more serious. There are a number of dangerous conditions that are urgent, and then there are some serious skin conditions that are not necessarily urgent. This distinction may not be easy for a patient to make, so it is necessary to see a physician.

Some signs and symptoms that may indicate that a rash is dangerous include:

Q: I just developed impetigo. How does one get it as an adult?

Impetigo is a superficial skin infection that is common in young children; however, individuals of any age can be affected. Impetigo is usually caused by bacteria from the staphylococcal (commonly known as staph) or streptococcal (commonly known as strep) species. Generally, those who are affected are carriers of these bacteria, meaning that their nostrils are colonized by the bacteria.

Q: What is scabies rash?

Scabies is a common condition caused by a tiny mite that is approximately the size of a pinhead. This mite burrows into the outermost layer of the skin and lays eggs. The body’s reaction to the mite causes inflammation and itching. The rash may look like red or scaling spots on locations such as the chest, buttock area, groin area, and hands and feet. The rash of scabies typically does not involve the scalp, except in children. The tell-tale lesion of scabies is called the burrow, which usually requires a magnifying glass to see.

Q: My 88-year-old mother has been diagnosed with actinic keratoses on her face. Her physician has recommended Levulan Kerastick treatment. She does not know if she wants to go through with the treatment. What will happen if she does not have it?
 

Q: How long do skin rashes typically last?

Rashes can last any amount of time, from minutes to hours, days to weeks, or even months to years, depending on the cause. The rash from hives, for example, may last only a number of minutes or hours. One individual hive lesion lasts for less than a day, but the general rash may last for weeks. Rashes such as psoriasis or eczema can last for months to years unless treated.

Dr. Lowell Goldsmith and Dr. Jeff Bernhard contributed their expertise on behalf of Logical Images for the above information.