Common red scaly rashes. Traps for the unwary--Part 1

Red scaly rashes often provide difficulties for general practitioners leading to a 'try and see' approach which, although successful on many occasions, may delay adequate treatment when there is lack of a correct diagnosis.

A study of 61 general practitioners, providing them with photographs and clinical history, highlighted areas of uncertainty particularly in diagnosis, but also in treatment of common red scaly rashes including seborrhoeic dermatitis, pityriasis versicolor, psoriasis, superficial basal cell carcinoma, eczema, and tinea. On the basis of their responses, practical tips have been suggested to overcome them.

Simple diagnostic procedures that can be done within the general practice setting include biopsy, skin scrapings and fungal microscopy. They have been highlighted as an important component of the approach to diagnosis of common red scaly rashes. While the study showed a substantial proportion of correct treatment being recommended, there was still an area of need, particularly in diagnosis, which could be enhanced by learning these simple techniques.