Although most rashes do not indicate cancer, sometimes in certain situations a connection can be noted. For instance, an uncommon form of breast cancer called inflammatory breast cancer can manifest as a rash that can make the skin thicker and appear a bit as a bruise in sections. In fact, this is an aggressive form which may not even be revealed on a mammogram. It can hit a young population of women as well as African American women.

It is always good to pursue a proper diagnosis as well as treatment for a rash. If you have been told you have scabies and have gone through a few applications without relief, it is important to speak with your doctor. The same thing is true for rashes that are treated with antibiotics.

In addition to inflammatory breast cancer, another type of cancer that can be proceeded by certain rashes are those of the lymph system. My sister’s hodgkin’s disease was proceeded by a severe case of shingles. We did not make the connection till years later. Other forms of lymphoma may manifest early as itching with dry, scaly skin and possibly blisters on the legs.

Don’t jump to any conclusions about your rash, as it is most likely unrelated to cancer, but have it checked out. If the symptoms persist after treatment, continue to seek the advice of specialists. There are many stubborn rashes as well as chronic rashes which have no connection to a serious underlying illness. It can be helpful when finding out that you have a chronic rash that is not life-threatening to be able to have a moment of gratitude. This isn’t always easy, since usually we wonder why we can’t be more carefree like our friends and family members are. Yet, to not have a health situation that shortens our lives is a blessing and something to reflect upon.