On the page below, you will find examples of rashes that can affect the whole body in adults. Allergies are the cause of many widespread rashes. An allergy from a medication is called a drug eruption, and these reactions may range in severity from a subtle skin color change to blisters and welts that may result in loss of skin. You should consult your doctor if you experience a rash after starting a new medication. In fact, any large rash that appears suddenly should be evaluated by a physician as it may be the early sign of a severe allergic reaction. Occasionally a viral infection will cause a large rash on the body in adults, called a viral exanthem, which is most common in children but may occur in adults as well. Additionally, chronic skin conditions (eg, psoriasis) can cause a widespread rash.
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Drug Eruption, Unclassified
A drug rash (drug eruption), also known as a drug reaction, is a skin condition caused by a medication. A drug rash can appear in many forms, and any medication can cause a drug rash.
Dry Skin (Xerosis)
Dry skin (xerosis) is a condition of rough, dry skin with fine scaling of skin and, occasionally, with small cracks in the skin. Dry skin is also known as winter itch or asteatosis.
Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)
Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a disorder is associated with dry skin, which begins with intense itching that is aggravated by scratching. The exact cause of eczema is unknown, and there is no known cure.
Hives (Urticaria)
Hives (urticaria), also known as welts, is a common skin condition with an itchy rash of pink to red bumps that appear and disappear anywhere on the body. An individual lesion of hives typically lasts a…
Lichen Planus
Lichen planus (LP) is a disease of the skin and, less often, the scalp, fingernails, toenails, and/or inside the mouth or genitalia (mucous membranes). Lichen planus can resolve on its own…
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a non-contagious, lifelong skin problem with thickened red, and often scaly, skin. It is very likely to run in families (hereditary) and seems to be caused by…
Scabies
Scabies is an itchy skin condition caused by a tiny parasite (mite) called
Sarcoptes scabiei that can live and multiply (infest) on skin. They are passed between people by prolonged skin-to-skin…
Scaly Skin (Ichthyosis Vulgaris)
Ichthyosis vulgaris, also known as common ichthyosis or fish scale disease, is a skin condition resulting in scaly skin, especially on the arms and legs. Its name is derived from the Greek word meaning…
Viral Exanthem
Viral exanthem, also known as non-specific viral rash, is a rash caused by a viral infection. Many viruses can cause a similar-appearing rash, so it is difficult to tell which one is the culprit. Your…
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