Definition

Rash is a popular term for a group of spots or an area of red, inflamed skin. A rash is usually a symptom of an underlying condition or disorder. Often only temporary, a rash is rarely a sign of a serious problem.

Description

A rash may occur on only one area of the skin, or it can cover almost all of the body. A rash may or may not itch. Depending on how it looks, a rash may be described as:

• blistering (raised oval or round collections of fluid within or beneath the outer layer of skin)
• macular (flat spots)
• nodular (small, firm, knotty rounded masses)
• papular (small, solid, slightly raised areas)
• pustular (pus-containing skin blisters)

Causes & symptoms

There are many theories as to why skin rashes occur. Sometimes the cause can be determined,...