Measles is a highly contagious viral illness. It causes high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a spreading red rash. Vaccination protects very well. How it spreads Through the air by coughs and sneezes; the virus can linger in…
An early sign of Lyme disease, caused by a tick bite (blacklegged/deer tick). The first symptom is often a spreading red rash called erythema migrans. Where it happens Common in certain regions (parts of North America and Europe) during warmer…
A skin abscess (boil) is a pocket of pus under the skin, usually from a bacterial infection. “Community MRSA” (CA-MRSA) is a common cause—it’s a type of Staph bacteria that’s harder to treat with some antibiotics but still manageable. How…
Intertrigo is an irritation and rash in skin folds (under breasts, groin, belly folds, between buttocks, between toes). Warmth and moisture allow yeast (Candida) to overgrow, causing a red, sore, often itchy rash. In babies, Candida commonly worsens diaper rash.…
Lichen sclerosus (LS) is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that mainly affects the genital and anal area. It makes the skin thin, fragile, and itchy. It’s not contagious. With proper treatment, symptoms can be controlled and complications reduced. Who gets…
Round, coin-shaped patches of eczema that are very itchy. Often on arms and legs. Triggers Dry skin, winter weather, harsh soaps, skin injuries (scratches, insect bites). Symptoms Round, scaly, red or pink plaques that may weep or crust. Itches intensely;…
An itchy hand/foot eczema with tiny, deep “tapioca-like” blisters on the sides of fingers, palms, and soles. Triggers Stress, sweat, heat, nickel or other metal exposure (jewelry, keys), detergents, frequent hand-washing. Symptoms Itchy, burning blisters that can crack and peel.…
A harmless yeast overgrowth on the skin that causes lighter or darker patches, often on the chest, back, or shoulders—more noticeable after sun exposure. Symptoms Flat patches that are lighter or sometimes darker than nearby skin. Mild scale if you…
A contagious fungal infection of the scalp and hair shafts. It’s common in school-age kids and causes scaly patches, hair loss, and sometimes swollen lymph nodes. How it spreads Close contact, shared hats/brushes, or contaminated surfaces. Pets (especially kittens/puppies) can…
Shingles is a reactivation of the same virus that causes chickenpox. It causes a painful, blistering rash on one side of the body or face, usually in a stripe along a nerve (a “dermatome”). It’s more common with age and…
