Skin Infections & Rashes

Articles In This Section

• Head Lice

  Lice aren't dangerous, but they do spread from person to person easily. They can also be hard to get rid of. Find out how to prevent lice -- and what to do if someone you know has them.

• Abscess

  People can get abscesses on the skin, under the skin, in a tooth, or even inside the body. Most abscesses are caused by infection, so it can help to know what to do. Find out in this article for teens.

• Erythema Multiforme

  Erythema multiforme is a rash that appears as red, target-shaped ("bulls-eye") patches or sores on the skin. Find out what causes it - and what to do - in this article for teens.

• Shingles

  Shingles is rare in teens with healthy immune systems, and mostly affects older adults. But it's good to know the basics about this skin rash, which is caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox.

• Paronychia

  Paronychia is an infection of the skin around a fingernail or toenail. Most of the time, it's not serious. Find out what causes it, what to do, and how to prevent it.

• Bedbugs

  Bedbugs are in the news because of recent infestations. Learn the telltale signs of these irritating pests - and how to deal with a bite.

• Molluscum Contagiosum

  The name sounds dramatic, like a Harry Potter spell. Luckily, molluscum contagiosum isn't a big deal. Find out what to do about it in this article for teens.

• What’s the Difference Between Infectious and Contagious?

  Find out what the experts have to say.

• Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

  Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is a disease caused by a bacteria that is carried by certain types of ticks. Learn about the signs and symptoms of RMSF and tips for preventing infection in this article.

• Cold Sores (HSV-1)

  Cold sores (also known as fever blisters) are pretty common and lots of people get them. So what causes them and what can you do?

• Smallpox

  You're probably wondering what smallpox is and why people are worried about it. There seems to be a lot of fear and confusion about this disease - so it helps to learn the facts.

• Anthrax

  It's extremely unlikely that you or someone you know could get anthrax. But what exactly is anthrax, and should you be concerned about it?

• Eczema

  Eczema is a common skin problem among teens. If you have eczema, read this article to find out more about it and how you can deal with the skin stress.

• Jock Itch

  Jock itch is a pretty common fungal infection of the groin and upper thighs. It is generally easy to treat - and avoid - by following a few simple steps.

• Ringworm

  Ringworm isn't a worm at all - it's the name for a type of fungal skin infection. The good news is that ringworm is easy to treat.

• Athlete’s Foot

  Although the name athlete's foot sounds funny, if you have this skin infection, you're probably not laughing. The good news is that it is generally easy to treat.

• Lyme Disease

  Lyme disease can be treated if it's caught early. So read this to find out what causes it, how it's treated, and how to prevent it.

• Scabies

  Scabies is a skin infection caused by tiny mites that burrow into the top layer of human skin to lay their eggs. Learn how scabies is spread, how to avoid it, and how doctors treat it.

• Impetigo

  Impetigo is a skin infection caused by fairly common bacteria. Read this article to learn how to recognize it and what to do about it.

• Cellulitis

  Cellulitis is a skin infection that involves areas of tissue just below the skin's surface. It can affect any part of the body, but it's most common on exposed areas, such as the face, arms, or lower legs.

• What’s My Lyme Disease Risk?

  Is the thought of Lyme disease making you feel you'll be safer in the comfort of your room than the great outdoors? This article can help you assess your Lyme disease risk.

• Toxic Shock Syndrome

  Although toxic shock syndrome (TSS) can be serious, it's a very rare illness.