There are many types of skin rashes. A rash is an outbreak of many red bumps or patches on the skin. Many conditions can cause an itchy rash. In children, several types of skin inflammations (such as diaper rash), various allergic reactions (contact dermatitis), and sometimes infection with a mite can be the cause of a longstanding itchy skin rash.
Determining whether the condition is chronic, generally lasting more than 1-2 weeks, or recurrent, coming and going several times over weeks to months, helps to narrow the number of possible causes for the skin rash. The location on the body and the extent of the rash can also help determine a cause. Limited areas of involvement are typical of irritant or allergic contact dermatitis, as well as a form of skin inflammation called lichen simplex chronicus. A rash in body folds is often due to diaper dermatitis or sometimes psoriasis. Eczema (atopic dermatitis) and psoriasis may involve either limited or extensive areas of the skin, while scabies and hives (urticaria) are often widespread, covering the entire body.
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