Skin rashes: how dangerous are they, and who is most at risk?

In our latest article, we learn what the most dangerous skin rashes are, and when they are considered to be severe in both adults and children, as leading consultant dermatologist, Dr Ravi Ratnavel, provides us with a comprehensive overview of skin rashes.

What are the most dangerous and life-threatening skin rashes we should know about?

Fortunately, life-threatening skin rashes are very rare. Most skin conditions cause symptoms such as itching, but do not cause a threat to one’s life.

There are, however, some extremely rare conditions that do. The ones that come to mind in a hospital setting are things like toxic epidermal necrolysis. This is a condition where this is an exfoliative peeling of the entire body surface.

This condition can be triggered by medicated drugs, or by common infections, that, in some people, unfortunately causes an immunological reaction, which leads to peeling of the skin.

Meningitis, particularly in children, is also quite dangerous. It is a bacterial infection that manifests itself as a rash on the body. This can be a life-threatening condition, and thus, needs to be treated rapidly.

When are skin rashes considered to be serious in both adults and children?

I think in both cases it really depends on how much of the body surface is affected by the rash. Severe skin rashes are just like having a bad burn. If large areas of the body are concerned, then you will suffer from various systemic problems such as loss of fluid, problems with maintaining your body temperature, and possibly, secondary infection.

In adults, the most common cause of severe rash tends to be the use of prescribed, medicated drugs. In children, it tends to be infection.

Who is most at risk of getting serious skin rashes, and why?

In terms of serious skin rashes, elderly people are more susceptible because they have less ability to deal with the consequences of a widespread skin rash. Patients who are immunocompromised because of an underlying condition are also at risk.

Dr Ravi Ratnavel is a highly proficient and qualified consultant dermatologist who can offer you his expert medical opinion and guidance when it comes to skin cancer, skin diseases, and severe skin rashes. Consult with him today via his Top Doctors profile.