[Symptomatic therapy of exanthema. Finding the proper externum]

In the treatment of exanthems, the first step is the elimination of the causal agent. Of great importance also is the symptomatic treatment of the cutaneous changes and such associated symptoms as itching and pain. The choice of the appropriate external medication and its vehicle will depend on the clinical findings, skin type, and the location of the skin lesions. The most important therapeutic principles are discussed taking drug-induced exanthema, acute urticaria and (herpes) zoster as examples.