### Life-Threatening Skin Rashes: What to Look For and When to See a Doctor Rashes are common and usually not dangerous, but some can be life-threatening. Here are five potentially life-threatening skin disorders where rash is a primary symptom: 1. **Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN)**: This severe condition causes large areas of the skin to peel off, leaving raw, painful areas. It often starts with flu-like symptoms. 2. **Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS)**: Similar to TEN, SJS causes the skin to blister and peel. It also affects mucous membranes, such as the mouth and eyes. 3. **Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome (SSSS)**: This bacterial infection leads to red, blistering skin that looks like it has been burned. 4. **Meningococcemia**: This bacterial infection causes a rash that looks like small, red or purple spots. It can quickly become life-threatening. 5. **Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever**: This tick-borne illness causes a rash that starts on the wrists and ankles and spreads to the rest of the body. ### Features of Serious Rashes - **Widespread**: The rash covers most or all of the body. - **Mucous Membranes**: The rash affects moist linings like the mouth, eyes, and genitals. - **Blisters**: Serious rashes often have blisters that are large and filled with fluid. ### When to See a Doctor If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately: - Rash covering a large area of your body - Rash with blisters - Rash affecting mucous membranes - Fever or flu-like symptoms accompanying the rash Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for these conditions. Don't hesitate to see a doctor if you suspect a serious rash.