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Many common rashes are self-limiting and do not need to be treated by a GP, others may be more diagnostically challenging. This article describes their appearance, with advice on which rashes need referral and which can be treated by non-prescription medication.
 

Reflect

Would you be able to tell the difference between pityriasis rosea and ringworm? Do you know what erysipelas looks like? What would you recommend for a childhood viral rash?

Plan

The illustrations in this article will help you decide whether a patient presenting with a rash can be treated with a non-prescription remedy or should be referred to a GP. Treatments are briefly described.

Key points

• Many common skin rashes can be treated in the pharmacy, eg simple eczema might just need reassurance and emollients, while the viral rashes of childhood need reassurance and maybe an analgesic.

• Think about the possibility of drug reactions, even after treatment has finished.

• Be alert for potentially fatal conditions such as erysipelas in the frail elderly, or

meningitis.

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