Pictures of Exfoliative Dermatitis Rashes and Treatment

What is Exfoliative Dermatitis?

Exfoliative dermatitis is a serious skin condition that causes redness, peeling, and scaling of the skin all over the body. It occurs when the outermost layer of the skin (the epidermis) detaches from the layer below (the dermis), resulting in extensive shedding (exfoliation) of the skin.

Exfoliative dermatitis can be caused by a variety of underlying medical conditions or triggers. Some common causes include:

• Medications - Certain antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and diuretics can trigger exfoliative dermatitis.
• Infections - Viral infections like herpes simplex or varicella-zoster virus reactivation.
• Autoimmune disorders - Conditions like lupus and dermatomyositis.
• Cancer - Lymphoma, leukemia, and solid tumors.
• Idiopathic - No underlying cause is found in about 25-50% of cases.

In some cases, exfoliative dermatitis starts off localized to one part of the body, but later becomes generalized as larger areas are affected. The skin may first become red and irritated before peeling and shedding occurs. Other symptoms include chills, fever, enlarged lymph nodes, and fatigue.

Types of Exfoliative Dermatitis

There are several different subtypes of exfoliative dermatitis:

Erythrodermic Psoriasis

This form occurs in people with an underlying diagnosis of plaque psoriasis. The psoriasis involves nearly the entire skin surface, often abruptly. The skin becomes bright red, scaled, and intensely itchy.

Drug-Induced Exfoliative Dermatitis

Certain medications can trigger widespread redness, peeling, and shedding. Antibiotics like penicillins and sulfonamides are common culprits, as are anticonvulsants and diuretics. The skin reaction usually develops within 1-3 weeks of starting the medication.

Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome

This type is caused by a Staphylococcus aureus infection and mainly affects infants and children. Blisters form on the skin that resembles a burn or scald injury. Eventually the top layer detaches, leaving a tender, red surface underneath.

Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis

This causes a sudden outbreak of pus-filled bumps all over the body. It is often triggered by medications, most commonly antibiotics and anti-malaria medications. Fever and neutrophils in the blood accompany the widespread pustular rash.

Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis

Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a life-threatening variety of exfoliative dermatitis. It is most often caused by severe reactions to medications. Widespread detachment of the epidermis resembles severe burns. Emergency medical treatment is required.

Pictures of Exfoliative Dermatitis Rashes

Here are some photos of the skin rashes seen in different forms of exfoliative dermatitis:

Erythrodermic Psoriasis Rash

Erythrodermic psoriasis causes bright red, scaly plaques over nearly the entire body surface. It can be itchy and painful.

Drug-Induced Rash

Medications are a common cause of generalized exfoliative dermatitis. The above rash was triggered by the medication allopurinol.

Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome

Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome causes fluid-filled blisters and skin peeling, as seen here on a baby's back. It is caused by a staph infection.

Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis

This reaction causes many small pus-filled pimples to erupt suddenly all over the body. The pustules sit on top of red, inflamed skin.

Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis

Toxic epidermal necrolysis causes large sections of the skin's surface to detach, resembling a severe burn. Emergency medical treatment is needed.

When to See a Doctor

It's important to seek medical care promptly if you develop any unusual skin changes resembling exfoliative dermatitis. Early diagnosis and treatment is key.

See your doctor right away if you experience:

• Widespread redness and irritation of the skin
• Skin peeling, shedding, or blistering
• Itching or burning sensations
• Chills, fever, or enlarged lymph nodes
• Fatigue, muscle aches, or feeling ill

Your doctor will examine your skin and ask about your medical history. Blood tests, skin biopsy, and other testing helps diagnose exfoliative dermatitis and uncover any underlying medical conditions triggering it.

Treatment for Exfoliative Dermatitis

Treatment focuses on caring for the skin reaction and addressing any underlying cause:

• Medications - Corticosteroids, antihistamines, antibiotics, and immune-suppressing drugs may be prescribed.
• Hydration - Fluid replacement is important if skin loss is extensive.
• Wound care - Antiseptic ointments and dressings help prevent infection.
• Avoid irritants - Heat, abrasive fabrics, and harsh soaps can further damage the skin.
• Treatment of underlying condition - Diseases like cancer or infections need directed treatment.

For mild cases confined to a small area, topical steroids and emollients may be sufficient. Severe widespread disease requires hospitalization for managing dehydration, electrolyte abnormalities, and potential infections.

Outlook for Exfoliative Dermatitis

The prognosis greatly depends on the underlying cause and severity of skin involvement. Mild cases can resolve in a couple weeks with proper treatment. Extensive disease has a mortality rate up to 30%.

Exfoliative dermatitis itself is not contagious. But some infectious triggers like herpes simplex can spread to others. Keeping the skin clean and covered helps prevent secondary infections.

With appropriate therapy, most episodes of exfoliative dermatitis can resolve within several weeks. However, some people may experience recurrent flare-ups. Long term management focuses on avoiding triggers and treating any underlying medical conditions.

Summary

Exfoliative dermatitis is a serious skin reaction causing redness, scaling, blistering, and extensive shedding of the outer skin layers. It has numerous potential causes including medications, infections, autoimmune disorders, and cancer. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is important, which may require hospitalization for severe cases. While exfoliative dermatitis itself is not contagious, any related infections may spread to close contacts. With proper medical care and avoidance of triggers, the prognosis can be good, although recurrent flares are possible in some individuals.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.