Having an unexplained rash on your chest can be concerning. You must be wondering if this strange development is something to worry about, so in this blog, let’s understand the possible reasons why rashes form on the chest and if it’s related to cancer.
Common Causes of Rashes on Chest
A rash on the chest doesn’t always have to indicate cancer. The skin can react with a random rash due to many other issues. Here are some common reasons why rashes form on the chest.
- Allergic Reactions
When skin comes in contact with allergens, it can cause severe contact dermatitis. Allergies to certain foods can also manifest as red patches on the chest. - Eczema or Psoriasis
It’s possible to develop eczema and psoriasis on your chest. They can be identified by red, itchy, and scaly patches that are very dry. - Fungal Infections
Ringworm is a fungal infection that causes a rash on the chest. If unexplained rashes occur, it’s a good idea to get checked for ringworm. - Viral Infections
Diseases like chickenpox or measles cause angry-looking rashes on the skin that fade with time. - Other Skin Conditions
Many skin conditions cause bouts of rashes on the chest. Hives and pityriasis rosea both cause scaly patches on the skin.
Cancers That Cause Chest Rashes
Some cancers do indeed cause rashes on the chest; however, they usually involve other symptoms. Rashes on the chest usually go away with treatment and time; however, if cancer is a cause, then they might be stubborn. These are some cancers that cause rashes on the chest.
- Inflammatory Breast Cancer
This type of breast cancer is rare but aggressive. It can appear as a red and bruised-looking rash, swollen and tender to the touch. Symptoms could be:- Skin with a ridged texture.
- Swelling on large parts of the chest.
- Changes in nipple appearance.
- Lymphoma
Certain types of this cancer form rashes on the chest because of skin involvement of cancerous cells. - Paget’s Disease of the Nipple
This is a type of breast cancer that can be hard to identify. It usually forms around the nipple, similar to eczema with red and scaly skin.
Consider a Skin Biopsy
Strange formations on the skin can keep you guessing. It can be stressful, especially if you have had cancer scares in the past. A skin biopsy can help diagnose what the cause of your chest rash is with a simple procedure. Diagnosing your issue can be the first step towards recovery from whatever is causing your chest rash. You can be a candidate for a skin biopsy if:
- The rash is growing rapidly.
- It is painful.
- You observe color changes in the rash.
- The rash isn’t going away.
What’s Next
An unexplained rash on the chest can send your thoughts racing. However, chest rashes are common and have many causes ranging from skin conditions to allergies. Despite most chest rashes not being a reason to worry, a skin biopsy can help you pinpoint the cause.
Visit our primary care physicians at the Family Diagnostic Clinic. Our seasoned doctors can diagnose your issue and suggest the right treatment effectively. Call us at (281) 351-6800 to book an appointment.