Daiquiris and Dermatology

Miliaria (Heat Rash)


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Miliaria can typically be found on the patient’s intertriginous areas and trunk. The malady is usually caused by prolonged exposure to a moist, hot environment. Risk of contraction can also be increased by occlusive clothing. Here, the sweat ducts’ ostia are plugged leading to the ultimate rupture of the sweat duct and a stinging, irritating reaction. The typical symptoms are itching and burning. The sweat gland obstruction’s histologic depth determines the clinical presentation. Obstruction in the superficial epidermis, deep epidermis, and dermis is referred to as miliaria crystallina, miliaria rubra, and miliaria profunda respectively. The lesions from this disease are usually non-follicular and between 1 to 3 millimeters in diameter. Miliaria can be prevented with topical antibacterial cream such as chlorhexidine and, if the patient has been hospitalized, miliaria on her back can be reduced by turning her over frequently. For treatment, the patient should be kept cool and wear light clothing. Triamcinolone acetonide, 0.1% in Sarna lotion, or mid-potency corticosteroid lotion or cream can be prescribed for application twice or four times each day. Secondary infections are treated with antistaphylococcal antibiotics (anticholinergic medication can be ordered in severe cases).

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Daiquiris and DermatologyBy Habib Olapade