What causes a burning itchy red body rash?

Several conditions can cause a burning, itchy, red body rash. Some common causes include:

1. Allergic reactions: An allergic reaction to certain substances, such as foods (e.g., peanuts, shellfish), medications (e.g., penicillin), insect bites/stings, latex, or other allergens, can manifest as a burning, itchy red rash.

2. Contact dermatitis: This type of skin inflammation occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with an irritant (e.g., certain chemicals, plants like poison ivy, or metals like nickel) or an allergen.

3. Eczema (atopic dermatitis): A chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, red, and scaly skin rashes.

4. Psoriasis: A common autoimmune disease that affects the skin, causing red, scaly, itchy patches.

5. Hives (urticaria): Raised, itchy, red welts on the skin that appear suddenly and may come and go quickly (acute urticaria) or persist for weeks (chronic urticaria).

6. Heat rash (miliaria): Small, itchy, red bumps that develop on the skin when sweat ducts become blocked, often in hot and humid weather.

7. Chickenpox (varicella): A highly contagious viral infection characterized by an itchy, red rash with small, fluid-filled blisters.

8. Measles: Another viral infection that causes a red, itchy rash along with fever, cough, and other symptoms.

9. Rubella (German measles): A mild viral infection that causes a red, itchy rash, typically accompanied by fever and swollen lymph nodes.

10. Scarlet fever: A bacterial infection that develops as a complication of strep throat, characterized by a red, itchy rash and a scarlet, strawberry-like tongue.

11. Drug reactions: Certain medications, such as antibiotics (e.g., penicillin), sulfonamides, or anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause drug-induced rashes that may burn and itch.

12. Insect bites/stings: Bites or stings from insects like mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, or bees can result in localized burning, itching, and red bumps or welts.

13. Sunburn: Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources can cause sunburn, leading to red, itchy, and painful skin.

14. Fungal infections: Rashes caused by fungal infections, such as ringworm (tinea) or athlete's foot, can be red, itchy, and scaly.

15. Skin cancer: In rare cases, a burning, itchy red rash can be a sign of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma.

If you experience a burning, itchy red rash, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.