Rash

In order to make an accurate dermatological diagnosis, firstly a thorough history needs to be taken, followed by a full skin examination of the patient, including examination of the scalp, nails and sometimes mucosae. Usually this will lead to the correct diagnosis, but sometimes additional investigations are needed to aid the clinician. This article looks at ways of assessing the dermatology patient by taking a thorough history and examination, and using appropriate investigative tools when needed. It discusses the use of appropriate dermatology terminology when describing rashes, presentations of some common acute, chronic and infective rashes, and appropriate treatments for some of the more common dermatoses.