Rashes on the lower legs explained
How to relieve a rash on the lower legs
Lower leg rash questionnaire
Use our free symptom checker to find out what's causing your rash.
A skin rash on one lower leg can appear red, blotchy, or have a dry and scaly texture. Most rashes on the lower leg are caused by dermatitis, eczema, or an allergic reaction which will look like red, itchy bumps on the leg. Read below for more information on lower leg rashes and treatment options.
Lower leg rash symptom checker
Rashes are dermatologic conditions that can affect the color, texture, and even sensation of the skin. They can develop on the skin anywhere on the body, and rashes on the lower extremities are common and can range from benign to serious.
Common characteristics of rash on one lower leg are
The following characteristics will likely be present if you are experiencing this symptom.
Changes in skin texture (scaly, leathery, papery)
Petechiae (pinpoint round spots)
Scratching is also an important symptom of a rash on the lower leg. Though scratching can be helpful in relieving any itchy sensation that may be occurring, it only offers temporary relief. Scratching can also result in breaks in the skin that can lead to bleeding or infection, further exacerbating the issue. Along with scratching, symptoms may include:
Rashes on the lower legs can be a signal of conditions that range from benign to life-threatening. It is important to make an appointment with your doctor in order to get the proper diagnosis, receive appropriate care and prevent complications.
What causes a rash on the calves, shins, or ankles?
The causes of rash on the leg are varied and range from benign to life-threatening. This can seem daunting because it may be difficult to classify the severity of your rash and any associated symptoms.
The majority of rashes on the legs are dermatologic in nature. Many skin conditions such as eczema, hives, psoriasis and a variety of other illnesses that specifically affect the skin and its layers can result in a rash of the lower extremities. Often, such conditions are also associated with symptoms such as redness, blisters or flaking. On the other hand, skin that is simply dry or that seems rashy may be due to the skin naturally being more dry with old age or temperature changes.
Most causes of rash are inflammatory in nature.
Infectious: The skin is home to a bacterium known as Staphylococcus aureus. Although it is a normal component of the skin flora, it is the leading cause of human bacterial infection and can result in redness and irritation superficially on the body. This type of skin infection is called cellulitis. Staphylococcus aureus can enter the skin via small lesions or cuts and result in painful, red, swollen areas on the skin. Other types of bacteria, fungi, and viruses can also cause such infections; however, Staphylococcus aureus is the most common.
Autoimmune: Many inflammatory diseases that result in the body attacking itself can result in chronic inflammation that commonly manifests as a rash on different parts of the body, including the lower extremities.
Rashes in the lower legs may be a sign of an underlying, systemic condition. There are many illnesses that can also cause itching and they can be grouped into the following categories:
Metabolic: Conditions such as diabetes and thyroid disease that affect the metabolic homeostasis of the body can result in rashes of the lower leg as well as other parts of the body.
Hematologic: Blood conditions such as anemia and leukemia can cause specific rashes on the lower legs and be associated with symptoms such as fatigue and weight loss.
Neurologic: Conditions that affect the nervous system such as shingles and diabetes can also result in rashes or itching of the lower extremities and other parts of the body.
There are many environmental causes for rashes on the lower extremities and other body parts.
Allergens: The skin works primarily as a protective barrier and is very sensitive to environmental factors that cause irritation or allergic reactions. Allergens can include drugs, topical treatments such as soaps or lotions, certain fabrics or metals, plants, foods and a variety of other substances. Itching acts as a warning or deterrent from using these irritants.
Drug reactions: Many drugs can cause serious skin reactions that manifest as a rash on the lower legs. There are some drugs where rashes are a known side effect, but it is not always possible to predict how your body will react. If you believe you are having a rash from a medication, seek medical attention. Some drug reactions are potentially life-threatening.
Non-specific dermatitis (skin inflammation)
Nonspecific dermatitis, or contact dermatitis, simply means inflammation of the skin from many different causes.
Most nonspecific dermatitis is caused by skin contact with a substance that provokes a reaction, which could be anything from plants to soap to jewelry to fabrics. Some may be due to an autoimmune condition, where the body's immune system attacks itself.
Risk factors include a family or personal history of allergies, asthma, or other condition which weakens the immune system; or constant contact with metals, plant life, or chemicals.
Symptoms commonly include red, swollen skin rash with itching, blistering, or oozing, which may become painful and infected.
Dermatitis itself is not contagious but can interfere with quality of life. A medical provider can help with managing the symptoms.
Diagnosis is made through patient history, physical examination, and sometimes skin biopsy and patch testing.
Treatment involves using protective measures if the substances cannot be avoided; making nutritional improvements to strengthen the immune system; using corticosteroid or other creams; and phototherapy.
Top Symptoms: red rash, itchy rash, painful rash
Symptoms that always occur with non-specific dermatitis (skin inflammation): red rash
Many causes of rash on the lower leg and its associated symptoms can be stopped or prevented with simple lifestyle changes:
Keep the skin adequately moisturized: Using unscented, dermatologically tested lotions and moisturizing cream on the lower leg can prevent skin dryness that can cause a rash.
Avoid allergens: Take note of symptoms that occur after using or ingesting certain substances and try to avoid them. It may be helpful to get formal allergy testing in order to be prepared and knowledgeable about your allergic triggers.
If your lower leg rash persists despite the home remedies above, make an appointment with your doctor. If your itching is caused by an underlying metabolic, hematologic or neurologic condition, your doctor will focus on treating that condition first. If your symptoms are due to another cause, he or she may suggest the following treatments that may help relieve your itchy skin:
Corticosteroid creams: If your itching is due to a rash or skin disorder such as eczema or dermatitis, corticosteroids are helpful given their anti-inflammatory effect in addition to their immunosuppressive role.
Antihistamines: If your itching is due to an allergic reaction, your doctor may prescribe medications that fight the immunologic response causing your inflammation and itching.
Light therapy (phototherapy): This treatment involves exposing the skin to specific wavelengths of ultraviolet light in order to help get the itching sensation under control.
Most causes of rashes on the lower extremity are benign. However, be very concerned if you notice the following symptoms in addition to your rash:
Changes in color of the skin (more than redness or irritation)
Pus or oozing from the affected area
These may be signs of serious life-threatening conditions such as meningitis or necrotizing fasciitis that require immediate attention.
FAQs about rash on one lower leg
Why is the rash only on one of my lower legs?
The lower extremities are particularly sensitive to changes in temperature and become easily dry and itchy, especially in low humidity conditions. The skin overlying the shin is the thinnest and often the first to be affected in many dermatologic conditions, especially skin dryness. One leg may simply be drying out more than the other if it is not adequately protected or moisturized. It is important to see your physician if the rash worsens or persists.
Will the rash spread from my lower leg to the rest of my body?
Depending on the specific cause of your lower leg rash, there is a possibility that the rash and irritation can spread from the lower leg to the rest of the body. For example, in many systemic diseases, itching may result in multiple extremities while in the case of an insect bite, the rash will not likely spread.
What are the complications of lower leg rash?
Complications of lower leg rash are usually the result of constant itchiness and persistent scratching. Scratching can cause breaks in the skin that lead to infection or other skin injury. Furthermore, scratching can lead to scarring and thickening of the skin.
Is lower leg rash a temporary or chronic condition?
Lower leg rash can be either temporary or chronic depending on the underlying cause. Usually, lower leg rash associated with allergens resolves after discontinuing the offending agent. However, lower leg rash associated with chronic conditions such as diabetes or liver disease can persist especially if adequate treatment is not obtained.
What are petechiae/what is a petechial rash?
Petechiae are small pinpoint spots that coalesce into a rash and do not disappear after applying pressure to the area (non-blanching). They happen and appear because of bleeding into the skin from broken capillaries. They can be caused by a variety of conditions (infectious, traumatic, systemic) and usually signal a more serious problem that requires medical follow-up.
Questions your doctor may ask about rash on one lower leg
What color is the skin change?
Are there bumps on your rash?
Does the rash have a clearly defined border?
Red, round scaly spotsPosted August 19, 2021 by T.
I have had red, round scaly spots on both lower legs for 3 months now. The lesions do not itch or pain me in any way. Saw my dermatologist and she said she didn't know what they were—accused me of scratching them. Why would I scratch the spots if they do not itch? She gave me an Rx for some cortisone cream and sent me on my way. The cream did nothing for the spots. Nothing. I have not made another appt. with her since she did not know what the spots were in the first place. They are unsightly and keep me from wearing shorts or skirts.
Causes of Itchy Rashes
Itchy rashes can be caused by a variety of environmental and lifestyle factors. Or even from medications. They often go away on their own, but your doctor may need to examine and treat you before you get real relief.
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Signs and Symptoms of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML). American Cancer Society. Updated Aug. 21, 2018. American Cancer Society Link
Necrotizing Fasciitis: All You Need to Know. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Updated Oct. 18, 2018. CDC Link
Hersi K, Kondamudi NP. Meningitis. [Updated 2018 Oct 27]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2018 Jan-. NCBI Link