I have a small bubbly rash on my back, which is itchy. Could it be shingles?

Question

Hello doctor,

I noticed this itchy, sore and bubbly rash on my back, in the bra strap area. The rash is relatively small and oval in shape. I have attached an image for your better understanding. I have been using tanning beds, so I am not sure if that could have caused this rash. But my mom says this looks like shingles. I am worried, as I have a family history of shingles. I have had chicken pox previously.

Answer 1

Hi,

I am glad you chose icliniq for your medical-related queries.

I understand your concern and will try to help you with it.

I have read your query and examined your picture (attachment removed to protect patient identity). Shingles is a viral infection caused by varicella zoster. It is characterized by unilateral pain, with multiple fluid-filled eruptions limited to a dermatome. It does seem like herpes zoster, that is, shingles. But the presence of itching is not a symptom of shingles. Are these rashes unilaterally localized to a particular area of the skin? Do you have any burning pain? If yes, then it is shingles. Then, I suggest taking tablet Acyclovir 800 mg five times a day and 5 % Acyclovir ointment twice daily for five days after consulting your dermatologist. Investigate for blood sugar, HBsAg, and HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) tests to rule out the cause of immunosuppression.

Thank you for consulting me.

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