Skin rash on the chest

Introduction

A skin rash can have various causes and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as itching or burning. The rash may appear together with blisters or pimples, it may consist of pure patches or be raised. A rash on the chest can also appear with general symptoms such as fever, if the rash is caused by an infection. Often a rash is harmless, but should be shown to a doctor so that he or she can assess what caused the rash and whether further treatment is needed.

Causes

A common cause of rash on the chest is pityriasis, caused by a fungus that occurs on the skin of everyone, but in some people leads to a brownish rash. Psoriasis can also lead to a red rash on the chest, and the red spots are also covered with scales. An infection with chickenpox can also be the reason for a rash on the chest. In the course of an allergic reaction it can lead to so-called hives (urticaria), which can occur not only on the breast but also on other parts of the body.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of the rash on the chest can be made by a general practitioner or a dermatologist. For many diseases, a glance at the rash is often enough to make the diagnosis. If a fungal infection is suspected, a strip of adhesive tape can be used to obtain some material and examine it under a microscope. If the diagnosis is unclear, a sample of the skin affected by the rash can be taken. A punch of a few millimeters is taken after local anesthesia and the sample material is then sent to the pathologist for further examination.

Therapy

The treatment of the rash on the breast depends on the cause of the rash. A family doctor or dermatologist can make the correct diagnosis and recommend a suitable therapy. Depending on the cause of the rash, this may consist of applying certain ointments or taking medication.

In many cases, a rash on the breast also subsides of its own accord after a few days without treatment. However, some rashes, such as psoriasis, have a protracted course and can persist for a long time despite suitable therapy. Many herbal ingredients are also suitable for the treatment of rashes, as they have an anti-inflammatory and itch-relieving effect. They also provide moisture and strengthen the skin. You can read more information on this topic here: Household remedies for skin rashes