Understand Gonorrhea Treatment and Its Potential Complications
Leukemia Rash Pictures And Symptoms
The following images show some ways in which leukemia can affect the skin. More detail is below.
Here are some of the skin rashes and symptoms a person may experience with leukemia.
Petechiae and purpuraPetechiae are tiny spots that occur when small blood vessels called capillaries break under the skin. They are less than 2 millimeters across. Larger areas are known as purpura.
Petechiae and purpura can be early signs of leukemia, although they may happen for many other reasons.
Leukemia disrupts the production of platelets, which usually enable blood to clot. As platelet levels fall, it becomes harder for them to block any burst capillaries. As a result, the blood can leak out into the skin.
Petechiae and purpura may appear red, purple, or brown. On darker skin, they can be harder to spot, but they may be easier to see on lighter areas, such as the soles of the feet or palms of the hands.
To distinguish petechiae from a skin rash, a person can press down on the affected area using a finger or thumb. Petechiae and purpura will not change color, but a rash will turn white.
Petechiae and purpura do not need specific treatment.
Easy bruisingEasy bruising and bleeding are common symptoms of leukemia. A person may notice them before they receive a diagnosis.
Bruises are common after an injury, but they may be a sign of leukemia in the following situations:
As with petechiae, the body cannot prevent blood vessels from bleeding under the skin when an injury occurs. However, these bruises are different from petechiae. They look like regular bruises.
Learn more about bruising easily.
Leukemia cutisLeukemia cutis can occur in the later stages of leukemia. It is more likely with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) but can occur with other types.
The skin develops small bumps that look like a rash.
A person may notice:
In some cases, the following may occur:
The lesions may be red, brown, yellow, blue, gray, or purple. On darker skin, they can be harder to see. As with petechiae and purpura, they may be more visible on lighter areas, such as the hands and feet.
With deeper lesions, the skin color may not change.
If chemotherapy and other treatments for leukemia are effective, the symptoms of leukemia cutis will disappear.
Easy bleedingPeople with leukemia often bleed more easily than before. This is because the blood does not clot effectively due to low platelet levels.
The individual may notice:
Sweet syndromeSweet syndrome can occur with various health conditions, including leukemia and other cancers. Doctors do not know precisely why it occurs.
It can lead to:
Skin changes can affect the face, neck, chest, and back. They are more likely in the upper extremities, such as the hands, but can also occur in the lower extremities.
Steroid treatment may help manage Sweet syndrome.
MastocytosisMastocytosis is a rash that occurs with some types of leukemia. It happens when there is too much mast cell activity. Mast cells play a role in the immune system and are present in connective tissue.
The mast cells trigger the release of compounds that stimulate the blood vessels.
The symptoms can resemble those of an allergic reaction. They can affect all the body's systems.
Skin symptoms include:
Anaphylaxis may also occur. This is a life threatening emergency in which an allergic reaction causes severe symptoms, including difficulty breathing.
There is no specific treatment for mastocytosis that occurs with leukemia. A doctor may prescribe antihistamines or other medications.
Mouth soresLeukemia often causes mouth problems. Sores, oral infections, and other symptoms may be early signs of leukemia.
Oral symptoms of leukemia include:
Topical treatments and over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications can help manage discomfort due to mouth sores. A doctor may recommend a medicated mouthwash. In some cases, steroids can help.
Pale skinPeople with leukemia can also develop anemia.
This can cause the skin to appear pale or grayish if a person has darker skin.
Red blood cells contain a protein called hemoglobin, which carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. A reduction in hemoglobin lowers the amount of oxygen circulating in the body.
As well as paleness, this can lead to:
Anemia can happen for many reasons, including leukemia and treatments for leukemia, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
A blood transfusion can boost red blood cells if anemia is severe.
Read about rashes with AML.
The following are some questions people frequently ask about leukemia skin symptoms.
What does a leukemia rash look like?This will depend on the rash, but leukemia and other health conditions can cause tiny red spots called petechiae on the skin or purple areas called purpura. The patches will not disappear if a person presses on them.
What does leukemia bruising look like?A person with leukemia may bruise more easily than before and in unusual places. They may also develop petechiae or purpura — red or purple patches that, as with bruises, result from bleeding under the skin.
Is a rash a symptom of leukemia?Petechiae and purpura can be the first sign of leukemia a person notices. However, they can also result from other conditions. People with leukemia can also be more prone to infections, including skin infections.
Where does leukemia rash appear first?A leukemia rash can appear anywhere on the body, but they commonly start on the chest, abdomen, legs, and arms.
Are leukemia rashes itchy?In some cases they can be itchy, but not always.
Skin Problems And HIV
Key pointsThere are three main causes of skin problems in people living with HIV: interactions between the immune system and HIV, infections, and side-effects of drugs.
Some HIV-related skin conditions or treatment-related side-effects can be very serious and require urgent medical attention.
The immune system and HIVWhen people first get HIV, they may experience flu-like symptoms as part of something called a seroconversion illness. This illness may include a non-itchy, red rash lasting 2 to 3 weeks. During ongoing infection, the immune system becomes damaged and this may lead to red and itchy (pruritic) skin. This may be treated with steroid creams or antihistamines. Skin problems may also occur when the immune system starts to recover due to HIV treatment (especially acne and folliculitis, infection of the follicles). It may be a sign of improving health of the immune system, as it responds to the anti-HIV drugs.
Skin problems caused by infectionsInfections are generally divided into three main groups: bacterial, fungal or viral infections. Some people will experience skin problems unrelated to their HIV diagnosis, as these are a common health issue. Some of the conditions described here are most common in people with a low CD4 cell count. Starting HIV treatment will help reduce the likelihood of them occurring.
Eczema (dry or irritated skin) has many causes and may be treated with antihistamines. To relieve any dry skin condition, moisturise frequently to stop the skin drying out further. Avoid long baths and the use of soap, shower gels and other potential irritants. Instead, use aqueous cream (E45) or moisturiser to wash with. Corticosteroid creams can reduce swelling and redness, and antihistamines can reduce itching. Try not to scratch, as this can make eczema worse and cause scarring.
Dermatitis (inflammation of the skin) is identified by red patches and a flaky rash. It may be caused by contact with an irritating substance or by eczema. Seborrhoeic dermatitis (inflammation of the skin's oil glands, caused by an overgrowth of yeast on the skin, or a reaction to the yeast) often occurs in hairy parts of the body. It causes red, itchy, flaky, inflamed skin. Mild cases cause dandruff. It's common in symptomatic HIV, and it can be harder to treat in people living with HIV. Dermatitis may be treated with steroid ointments or tablets, or with anti-fungal creams or tablets. Some scalp problems can be treated with anti-dandruff or anti-fungal shampoos.
Photodermatitis is a skin condition where the skin reacts to exposure to the sun by turning darker in colour. It's most common in darker-skinned people, but anyone with HIV may experience photodermatitis.
Tinea is a fungal infection that causes flaky red skin and moist white patches. It is treated with anti-fungal creams. Keep skin clean and dry and avoid irritants, e.G. Deodorants.
Impetigo is a bacterial skin infection indicated by yellow, crusty red sores. Skin follicles may also become infected, leading to boils or abscesses, which are treated with antibiotics.
Glossary rashA rash is an area of irritated or swollen skin, affecting its colour, appearance, or texture. It may be localised in one part of the body or affect all the skin. Rashes are usually caused by inflammation of the skin, which can have many causes, including an allergic reaction to a medicine.
fungiA group of organisms, including the yeasts which cause candidiasis and cryptococcosis.
immune systemThe body's mechanisms for fighting infections and eradicating dysfunctional cells.
symptomAny perceptible, subjective change in the body or its functions that signals the presence of a disease or condition, as reported by the patient.
human papilloma virus (HPV)Some strains of this virus cause warts, including genital and anal warts. Other strains are responsible for cervical cancer, anal cancer and some cancers of the penis, vagina, vulva, urethra, tongue and tonsils.
Folliculitis (small lumps or pustules in the follicles – the hair's root) is a skin infection, most likely caused by yeast, which is treated with anti-fungals. Prurigo nodularis is a skin condition involving outbreaks of itchy, crusted lumps on the skin. The itching can be intense and severe. These are both mainly seen in people with very low CD4 cell counts.
Small pearly pimples may be caused by viral infections such as the pox virus, Molluscum contagiosum, or by fungal infections such as cryptococcosis. Molluscums can spread very quickly and require treatment at your HIV clinic.
Warts, particularly genital and anal warts caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) are often seen in people living with HIV. See our factsheet on genital warts and HPV for more information.
Herpes and the AIDS-defining cancer Kaposi's sarcoma also affect the skin.
Drug side-effectsPeople with HIV often develop skin-related side-effects, such as rash.
The NNRTI nevirapine (Viramune) causes rashes in about 15 to 20% of people. This rash is usually mild and disappears as your body gets used to the drug. The risk is higher in people with a healthier immune system, so it is not recommended for women with CD4 counts above 250 or men with counts higher than 400. To minimise the chance of side-effects, your doctor may recommend that you start at a lower dose and increase to the full dose over two weeks. Nevirapine is no longer recommended as standard HIV treatment in the UK.
"Infections are generally divided into three main groups: bacterial, fungal or viral infections."
Developing a rash is quite a common side-effect of other anti-HIV drugs too, but in most cases it is mild and goes away on its own. Tell your doctor if you develop a rash, so the cause can be investigated.
A very small number of people develop a very serious drug reaction called Stevens Johnson syndrome (SJS) after starting treatment with nevirapine (Viramune) or etravirine (Intelence). Skin reactions such as SJS may cause severe rash, crusting or ulcers of the mouth or genitals, burning skin and large layers of skin to flake off. See your HIV clinic immediately (or A&E if out of hours) if you develop a rash together with any of these symptoms:
Rash is also a sign of an allergic reaction to the anti-HIV drug abacavir (Ziagen). Abacavir is also in the combination pills Kivexa, Triumeq and Trizivir. If this reaction occurs, you should contact your doctor immediately. If you stop taking abacavir because you developed the allergic rash you must not take the drug again as this can cause potentially fatal side-effects.
Having an allergic reaction to abacavir has been associated with the presence of a particular gene. Before starting treatment with abacavir you should have a test to see if you have this gene. If you do, you must not take abacavir. If you do not have the gene, it is very unlikely that you will have an allergic reaction to the drug, but you should still contact your clinic if you develop a rash or feel unwell after starting the drug. Fever and rash are the most common symptoms of this hypersensitivity reaction. However, it is possible to have such a reaction without these. Other key symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, cough, headache and muscle weakness.
Other drugs which are regularly used to treat infections commonly seen in people with HIV can also cause rash and skin reactions. These include Septrin (cotrimoxazole), dapsone, pyrimethamine, clindamycin, atovaquone, the aminopenicillins, thiacetazone and sulphadiazine.
Recognizing The Symptoms Of Eczema
The symptoms of eczema can vary and may not be the same for everyone. In some cases, different types of eczema can develop on different parts of your body at various times.
"Eczema" is a term for multiple conditions that cause itching, inflammation, or rash-like patches on the skin. It's common: More than 31 million people in the United States have it, according to the National Eczema Association.
Much of the information about eczema is how the symptoms appear on lighter skin. But eczema on darker skin can look different.
In people with black or brown skin, scratching the itchy skin can also lead to hyperpigmentation in affected areas. Hyperpigmentation is when skin becomes darker than the surrounding skin.
On the other hand, inflammation can sometimes cause depigmentation on darker skin. This is when skin loses color and becomes lighter than the surrounding skin.
Knowing the symptoms of eczema can help determine whether you need to talk with a doctor for a definitive diagnosis and treatment.
The hallmark of eczema is itchy and inflamed skin. Several skin conditions fall under the category of eczema, so other symptoms may also be present.
These symptoms can include:
Eczema looks different in babies and toddlers than in older children and adults. In babies 6 months and younger with lighter skin, eczema may look red and a little wet or oozy.
In babies 6 months and younger with darker skin, eczema may look purple or gray. Their skin may also be very itchy.
Between 6 and 12 months old, eczema typically forms on areas of the body that babies use for crawling. It can look red or purple and inflamed. If infected, it may have a yellow crust on it.
In toddlers under age 5 years, eczema usually affects the face. On lighter skin, it can look red and bumpy. On darker skin, it can look purplish or darker than surrounding skin.
Eczema in toddlers can also look scaly and dry. You may notice deep lines on their skin.
In children over 5 years old, eczema may look red and itchy or rash-looking on lighter skin. It may also look like permanent goosebumps and be thicker. On darker skin, the thickening may be hyperpigmented.
Skin concerns may be a symptom of a different condition, so visiting a dermatologist can help determine whether the cause is eczema or something else.
Certain body areas are more likely to be affected by eczema than others. This can change depending on your age.
Where is eczema on babies?In babies, eczema is often found on the scalp and face, particularly the cheeks. It's most often found on the head, but it can develop anywhere. However, it does not typically occur in the diaper area.
A baby may rub their face or head on the carpet or their bedsheets to scratch the itchy skin. This can further irritate the skin and lead to infection.
As babies start to crawl, their eczema may be more frequently seen on their elbows or knees. This is because these areas are prone to rubbing as they crawl.
In toddlers, eczema may often be seen on their face, around their mouth, or on their eyelids. It may also be on wrists, elbow creases, and knees.
Where is eczema on children?In older children, eczema typically appears:
Sometimes other skin conditions can affect these areas, so it's best to talk with a doctor for a definitive diagnosis.
Where is eczema in adults?In adults, common places for eczema include:
Diagnosing eczema can be tricky sometimes.
Other skin conditions, like psoriasis, can look like eczema. A dermatologist can tell the difference.
The underlying causes of psoriasis and eczema are different:
Psoriasis itching tends to be mild, whereas the itching associated with eczema can be intense.
In older adults, eczema is usually on the backs of the knees and inside the elbows. Psoriasis is often found on the scalp, elbows, knees, buttocks, and face.
In children, eczema is more common than psoriasis.
Aside from psoriasis, other skin conditions can look like eczema. Knowing the underlying cause and identifying the condition correctly is the best way to get appropriate treatment.
A dermatologist can diagnose the condition based on:
Other conditions that may look similar to eczema include:
There is no cure for eczema, but treatment and home remedies can manage symptoms. By working with a dermatologist or allergist, you can help reduce your chances of flare-ups and minimize symptoms.
Treatment is based on three concepts, according to the National Eczema Association:
There is no one way to treat eczema. Specific treatment plans can consider the type of eczema you have, your age, and the severity of the condition. What works for one person may not work for another.
Most important for babies, children, and adults alike is to have a regular bathing and moisturizing routine. This helps keep water in your skin and control flares. Your doctor can provide techniques based on your specific situation.
Knowing what triggers eczema flares can help you avoid anything that would cause a flare-up or irritation.
Medication may be OTC or prescription depending on the type and severity of your eczema.
OTC medications can include:
Prescription treatments can include:
For children, according to 2020 research, dietary guidelines may help if there is a food-related allergy that triggers eczema. If the outbreaks are stress-related, therapy may be helpful.
Even without a cure, you can treat eczema in various ways. If one treatment doesn't work, talk with your doctor about trying another.
More and more research is being done on possible treatments. By following your doctor's treatment plan and lifestyle strategies, you can help minimize symptoms of eczema and manage skin irritation.
Symptoms of eczema can vary depending on the type of eczema and your age.
Sometimes other skin conditions, like psoriasis, can mimic symptoms of eczema, so it's always a good idea to visit a dermatologist to get an accurate diagnosis.
Once a correct diagnosis is made, it determines which treatment may work best for you.
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