HomeAnswersDermatologyacute urticariaI have developed a rash in the past 48 hours. What is it?

What causes sudden rashes with itchiness and discomfort?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At March 29, 2024
Reviewed AtMarch 29, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have developed a rash in the past 48 hours, accompanied by itchiness and discomfort. The rash is more pronounced on my legs but is also present on my arms, hands, feet, and the back of my head. I do not have any known allergies, and the onset coincided with my vacation overseas. Please help.

Thank you.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

After reviewing the attached pictures (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity), the abrupt onset, itchiness, recent travel history, and clinical presentation strongly suggest an episode of acute urticaria, an immediate allergic reaction. Possible triggers include changes in location, weather, dietary habits, insect bites, or the introduction of new medications, including painkillers. Typically, these episodes last around three to four weeks, and it is advisable to continue the prescribed medication throughout this period. Recommended treatment involves taking antihistamines and applying mild to moderately potent topical steroids to suppress the allergic reaction. I suggest you take tablet Levocetirizine 5 mg once daily at night after dinner for three weeks and apply topical Fluticasone propionate ointment for 10 days to reduce symptoms.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.

Regards.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you for replying.

I am inquiring about the possibility of these symptoms being caused by insect bites. I have noticed the rash is widespread, affecting my hands, feet, arms, legs, and head. Could this be indicative of bed bug bites? Additionally, considering the involvement of my soles and palms, along with a recent sore throat for the past two days, is it conceivable that this could be hand, foot, and mouth disease? Please clarify.

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Certain individuals have a sensitive skin type, and a bite at one site can provoke a generalized response, referred to as papular urticaria. Considering your symptoms, hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is indeed a possible explanation. Lesions may appear on the palms and soles, and occasionally in the oral cavity. If you observe such manifestations, I would suggest you seek further evaluation.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you for your assistance.

I have shared an additional photo. Please clarify whether the current symptoms align with papular urticaria or insect bites based on the additional image.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I have thoroughly examined the attached picture (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity). The lesions appear inflammatory in nature. Upon close inspection, I have not identified clear fluid-filled lesions, a characteristic feature of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD). Additionally, the affected site is uncommon for HFMD, making it highly unlikely. The lesions seem to be less urticarial and likely appear red due to excessive scratching. Considering these observations, insect bites or prurigo simplex are plausible explanations for the presented symptoms.

I hope this clarifies your query.

Thank you.

Regards.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your response.

I understand that the most probable diagnosis aligns with insect bites. This explanation accounts for the varied rash features, including papular urticaria in certain regions and individual bites in others that may not have triggered the urticarial response. Am I correct? Should I be concerned?

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Certainly, given the erythematous and edematous appearance of the lesions, potential differentials to consider include papular urticaria, urticarial vasculitis, and small vessel vasculitis. For a precise diagnosis and appropriate management, I suggest you consult a dermatologist in person.

Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Rakesh Kumar Bahunuthula
Dr. Rakesh Kumar Bahunuthula

Dermatology

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