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Symptoms » Itchy rash » Diagnosis Checklist
 
Dr. Huntley's

DIAGNOSIS CHECKLIST
for Itchy rash

Questions Your Doctor May Ask - and Why!

During a consultation, your doctor will use various techniques in his assesment of the symptom: Itchy rash. These may include a physical examination or other medical tests. Your doctor may ask several questions when assessing your condition. It is important to remember that your consultation is a two-way process and any extra information you can share with your doctor may help them with their diagnosis.

Some of the questions your doctor may ask are listed below:

  1. How long have you had the itchy rash?

    Why: to determine if acute or chronic.

  2. Where is the itchy rash and where did it start?
  3. Is the itchy rash localized or generalized?

    Why: almost every generalized rash may be associated with itching all over but the most common ones are urticaria (hives), dermatitis herpetiformis, eczema, scabies and pemphigus.

  4. Is the itch mild, moderate or severe?

    Why: e.g. a very itchy rash may suggest hives, atopic dermatitis, scabies, skin lice, insect bites, chicken pox, dermatitis herpetiformis; a mild to moderate itchy rash may suggest tinea, psoriasis, drug eruption, pityriasis rosea, candida or lichen simplex.

  5. Contact with anyone that also has itching rash?

    Why: e.g. may suggest scabies, chicken pox, impetigo.

  6. Past history of skin disorders that may cause itching?

    Why: e.g. atopic dermatitis (eczema), hives, scabies, dermatitis herpetiformis, asteatosis (dry skin).

  7. Have you worn any new clothing recently?
  8. Have you been exposed to anything different recently?
  9. Do you have an allergic tendency?

    Why: e.g. asthma, hayfever.

  10. Past medical history?

    Why: e.g. Celiac disease may be associated with dermatitis herpetiformis.

  11. Medications?

    Why: some medications may cause sensitivities such as aspirin, morphine and codeine.

  12. Known allergies?

    Why: e.g. food allergies, insect allergies, drug allergy.

  13. Family history?

    Why: e.g. allergies, psoriasis, eczema.

  14. Occupational history?

    Why: e.g. exposure to fiberglass may cause a generalized sensitivity.

Questions your doctor may ask about related symptoms:

Sometimes, other symptoms may be present and may help your doctor analyse your condition. These may include:

  1. Fever?

    Why: may suggest chicken pox, serum sickness, exfoliative dermatitis.


 » Next page: Symptom combinations for Itchy rash

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