Some require biopsy or other testing. The treatment for a maculopapular rash depends on the underlying cause: A doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics for a bacterial infection. Moles are usually harmless. A papule can have distinct or indistinct borders. A macule is a flat, reddened area of skin present in a rash. If breathing is affected, it is essential to seek emergency medical attention immediately. To prevent this, there are a few things you can do: Keloids are harmless and do not require medical attention. Some research reports that the antibiotic amoxicillin caused a maculopapular rash in up to 70 percent of people being treated for a viral infection, most notably for the EpsteinBarr virus. Exanthems are usually caused by viral or bacterial infections. Comedones can be treated with topicals. The number and appearance of junctional naevi depend on sun exposure, fluctuating hormonal levels, and immunosuppression [1,3]. When it's greater than 0.5 cm, it is called a bulla. Can't feel it with your eyes closed. Papules are tiny lesions or dome-shaped elevations on the skin that are either red or pink colored and can be well seen on the skin. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Skin lesions can vary in appearance and may or may not be cancerous. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people over 50 receive the Shingrix vaccine. Examples include warts Warts Warts are common, benign, epidermal lesions caused by human papillomavirus infection. Learn more about hepatitis B, including the precautions. Sometimes hospitalization may be needed. The rash usually occurs within 7 to 28 days of taking the drug. Configuration is the shape of single lesions and the arrangement of clusters of lesions. Otherwise, sebaceous cysts don't usually require treatment. They are raised scars that form after an injury. A ruptured cyst may become infected and needs to be treated. Vesicles are small, clear, fluid-filled blisters < 10 mm in diameter. If you have warts that are not improving with home treatments, talk to your healthcare provider. The underlying cause may result in complications. All rights reserved. Warts are raised, flesh-colored papules. You may need a prescribed antihistamine or corticosteroid cream. It occurs in patients with urticaria pigmentosa or mastocytosis Mastocytosis and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome Mastocytosis is mast cell proliferation with infiltration of skin or other tissues and organs. They can be lighter, darker, or even appear pink or red. Macule noun A spot. How raised is it: A macule is flat. Treatment is usually unnecessary. There are many different types of skin lesions that you can be born with or acquire. Bullae are clear fluid-filled blisters > 10 mm in diameter. It is characterized by fever, cough, coryza, conjunctivitis, an enanthem (Koplik spots) on the oral mucosa read more (can also have papules and plaques), and some allergic drug eruptions Drug Eruptions and Reactions Drugs can cause multiple skin eruptions and reactions. When checking your moles, these changes may suggest melanoma: Keep an eye out for changes in your moles or new moles with these qualities. If you notice this after an ear piercing, for example, immediately remove the earring and wear a pressure earring over the piercing. Important information to obtain from history includes Personal or family read more and Diagnostic Tests for Skin Disorders Diagnostic Tests for Skin Disorders Diagnostic tests are indicated when the cause of a skin lesion or disease is not obvious from history and physical examination alone. They may cause secondary crusting. A maculopapular rash may cause itching at the site of the bumps. Macules represent a change in color and are not raised or depressed compared to the skin surface. Mucous membrane involvement is rare. This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing. Symptoms are itching, scaling, and hyperpigmentation. Topical creams like Adrucil (fluorouracil), Solaraze (diclofenac), and Zyclara (imiquimod) can also be used. Accurately describing dermatologic lesions is extremely important for tracking a disease process and making an accurate diagnosis. Itching tends to be much more intense with eczema and milder in psoriasis. Papulesoften start as erythematousmacules. Keep reading to learn more about this type of rash and what treatments are available. They can also happen for unknown reasons. Skin Cancer Foundation. Cold soresare sores on the mouth or lip area. Black eschars are collections of dead skin that can arise from infarction, which may be caused by infection (eg, anthrax Anthrax Anthrax is caused by the gram-positive Bacillus anthracis, which are toxin-producing, encapsulated, facultative anaerobic organisms. It has clear borders and is firm. Antivirals or other prescription medication. Causes of skin lesions include blocked pores, sun exposure, and organisms like viruses, bacteria, or mites. They look like red, swollen, raised marks on the skin. Areas of discoloration that are larger than or equal to 1 cm are referred to as patches. How to Tell the Difference and Why it Matters. Add to cart. Hives can itch or sting. The shape can vary, too. The nodules are firm and usually skin-colored. Orange skin is most often seen in hypercarotenemia, a usually benign condition of carotene deposition after excess dietary ingestion of beta-carotene. It happens when bacteria or fungi enter the skin. Rosacea treatment: thickening skin. Diagnosis read more and bullous pemphigoid Bullous Pemphigoid Bullous pemphigoid is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder resulting in generalized, pruritic, bullous lesions in older patients. Papule: an elevated, circumscribed skin lesion 1 cm in diameter. A range of topical treatments can help soothe chickenpox. Causes include platelet abnormalities (eg, thrombocytopenia, platelet dysfunction Overview of Platelet Disorders Platelets are circulating cell fragments that function in the clotting system. When examining the color of skin, health care practitioners should note that the natural color of a patient's skin can change the appearance of colors. They can be caused by friction, such as a shoe rubbing on your skin when you walk. Hidradenitis suppurativa Hidradenitis Suppurativa Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic, scarring, acnelike inflammatory process that occurs in the axillae, groin, and around the nipples and anus. How Viagra became a new 'tool' for young men, Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction, https://www.aafp.org/afp/2010/0315/p726.html, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4717649/, http://www.who.int/en/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/zika-virus. Papule noun a small inflamed elevation of skin that is nonsuppurative (as in chicken pox) ADVERTISEMENT Macule verb To blur or double (a printed impression). HSV-1: Usually causes oral herpes. Diagnosis is clinical. For these people, certain preventative measures may stop keloids from forming. Many lesions can be treated at home with topical ointments and creams. Indurated skin has a hard, resistant feeling. It appears as thick, scaly crusts on the skin. Attending . They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Nevi, actinic keratoses, sun spots, age spots, warts, lichen planus, freckle, insect bites, liver spots, seborrheic keratoses, some lesions of acne, tinea versicolor, and skin cancers. American Society of Clinical Oncology. Keloids are more frequent read more are hypertrophic scars that extend beyond the original wound margin. Common manifestations may include arthralgias and read more has characteristic lesions on sun-exposed skin of the face, especially the forehead, nose, and the conchal bowl of the ear. The excess growth of skin cells causes thick, raised, scaly patches. Secondary skin lesions arise from primary skin lesions. Measles is an infectious disease caused by the rubeola virus. Symptoms usually begin with pain along the affected read more . Vesicles are characteristic of herpes infections, acute allergic contact dermatitis Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) Contact dermatitis is inflammation of the skin caused by direct contact with irritants (irritant contact dermatitis) or allergens (allergic contact dermatitis). It is possible to recognize chickenpox at home. All rights reserved. Lesions are on sun-exposed or protected skin. Urticaria pigmentosa is a form of cutaneous mastocytosis in which there are brown macules and papules. Flat melanocytic lesions Ephilides Lentigo simplex Junctional naevus A papule is one of the 4 inflammatory types of acne, and it looks like a relatively small red raised bump with no center. However, some types of lesions can become cancerous. A doctor may be able to offer alternative treatments. By Helen Massy Whether it is urticaria or angioedema, call seek emergency medical care if you experience: Impetigois a bacterial skin infection. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Cold sores can be red, painful, and cause fluid-filled blisters. You may feel tingling before the sore appears. They are typically hot and itchy. Papule elevated, solid, palpable lesion that is 1 cm in diameter. Mild to moderate cases of acne can usually be treated at home. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The key to healing is to avoid the allergen or irritant. Papules have the following characteristics: Raised bumps Closed pore (skin is covering) Transmission. It is typically used to describe a rash that is widespread over the body, symmetric, and red with macules or papules, but without scales. The following may cause a maculopapular rash: Several bacterial and viral infections are known to cause maculopapular rashes. Chronic exposure to sunlight ages the skin (photoaging, dermatoheliosis read more , some lesions of acne Acne Vulgaris Acne vulgaris is the formation of comedones, papules, pustules, nodules, and/or cysts as a result of obstruction and inflammation of pilosebaceous units (hair follicles and their accompanying read more , and skin cancers Overview of Skin Cancer Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer and commonly develops in sun-exposed areas of skin. Multiple factors contribute, including read more frequently affects the scalp, extensor surfaces of the elbows and knees, umbilicus, and the gluteal cleft. Learn more here. Overview. We avoid using tertiary references. This is because it often appears as a belt-like formation around the rib cage or waist. If you are think you might have actinic keratosis, see your doctor or dermatologist. They are caused read more or peripheral arterial disease Peripheral Arterial Disease Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is atherosclerosis of the extremities (virtually always lower) causing ischemia. A papule is a raised area of skin in a rash. The most distinctive feature of a maculopapular rash is the pattern of macules and papules. Treatment for both conditions is similar. 20 Types of Skin Lesions and What They Look Like. o [ pediatric abdominal pain ] The blisters can ooze pus. Most commonly, and particularly in the groins, they precede pustules. As a verb macule is to blur or be blurred; especially to blur or double an impression from type. post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (such as that which occurs after acne lesions heal). Predictive value of caf au lait macules at initial consultation in the diagnosis of neurofibromatosis type 1. Apply silicone gel or silicone sheets to freshly healed scars. Urticaria pigmentosa is mostly seen in infants and improves with age. Angioedema occurs under the skin. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Examples include nevi, warts, lichen planus Lichen Planus Lichen planus is a recurrent, pruritic, inflammatory eruption characterized by small, discrete, polygonal, flat-topped, violaceous papules that may coalesce into rough scaly plaques, often accompanied read more , insect bites, seborrheic keratoses Seborrheic Keratoses Seborrheic keratoses are superficial, often pigmented, epithelial lesions that are usually warty but may occur as smooth papules. Multiple factors contribute, including read more . The typical wheal lasts < 24 hours. Helen Massy, BSc, is a freelance medical and health writer with over a decade of experience working in the UK National Health Serviceas a physiotherapistand clinical specialist for respiratory disease. For example, macules could be vitiligo lesions (can be lighter or hypopigmented) or moles (that are darker in color or hyperpigmented). If youre concerned about your skin, talk to a dermatologist to get an accurate diagnosis. A xanthelasma is a slightly raised, yellow-white, well-circumscribed plaque that typically appears along the nasal read more and xanthomas, and pseudoxanthoma elasticum Pseudoxanthoma Elasticum Pseudoxanthoma elasticum is a rare genetic disorder characterized by calcification of the elastic fibers of the skin, retina, and cardiovascular system. Treatment depends read more involves skin containing a high density of apocrine glands, including the axillae, groin, and under the breasts. Identifying and treating it early can help prevent skin cancer from developing. Lichen planus Lichen Planus Lichen planus is a recurrent, pruritic, inflammatory eruption characterized by small, discrete, polygonal, flat-topped, violaceous papules that may coalesce into rough scaly plaques, often accompanied read more frequently arises on the wrists, forearms, genitals, and lower legs. Green fingernails Discoloration Deformities are often considered together with dystrophies, but the two are slightly different; deformities are generally considered to be gross changes in nail shape, whereas dystrophies are read more suggest Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection. Chronic maculopapular rashes may last for more than 8 weeks. Herpetiform describes grouped papules or vesicles arranged like those of a herpes simplex infection Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Infections Herpes simplex viruses (human herpesviruses types 1 and 2) commonly cause recurrent infection affecting the skin, mouth, lips, eyes, and genitals. The cause is unknown, but species of Malassezia read more , and fungal infections. Palpable purpura is considered the hallmark of leukocytoclastic vasculitis. However, macule is a non-elevated discolored skin patch on the skin and papule is an elevated white lesion that is smaller than 0.5cm in diameter. Hess C.Identifying primary and secondary lesions. These disorders require appropriate attention and adjunctive treatment. read more , arterial insufficiency, or vasculitis Cutaneous Vasculitis Cutaneous vasculitis refers to vasculitis affecting small- or medium-sized vessels in the skin and subcutaneous tissue but not the internal organs. They can be found anywhere on the body and may appear at any age. Learn more about the Merck Manuals and our commitment to Global Medical Knowledge. What causes hives and how to identify it? Your macules may not go away, but treating the condition thats causing them may help prevent further growth of the macules you have. They may appear all over your body, or they may be in one place. However, you may want to see a healthcare provider to confirm the diagnosis. Plaques may be flat topped or rounded. Eczema tends to occur in places like the crooks of the knees and the elbows. Treatment options for macules caused by vitiligo include: Some might choose no medical treatment, opting for cover-ups such as makeup. The blisters can break and weep fluid. Macules caused by vitiligo are often difficult to treat. Use for phrases As such, this type of lesion is often calledprecancerous. It may develop a horn-like texture. Psoriasis frequently exhibits this phenomenon, as may lichen planus Lichen Planus Lichen planus is a recurrent, pruritic, inflammatory eruption characterized by small, discrete, polygonal, flat-topped, violaceous papules that may coalesce into rough scaly plaques, often accompanied read more , often resulting in linear lesions. Some are benign, which means they are harmless. Sudden changes in any lesion should cause concern. Proper descriptions of lesions will be defined and discussed and related to common (and uncommon) dermatologic diseases. With eczema, the skin tends to be red, inflamed, cracked, blistered, and may leak pus. Patch a large area of colour change, with a smooth surface. (See also Overview of Lymphoma and Non-Hodgkin read more and lupus erythematosus Variant Forms of Lupus Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic, multisystem, inflammatory disorder of autoimmune etiology, occurring predominantly in young women. Keloids: How to prevent these raised scars, Scabies -general information - frequently asked questions (FAQs). LED light therapy can be done in an office or at home, but in-office tools tend to be more effective. Diagnosis read more , physical trauma with or without vascular compromise (eg, caused by decubitus ulcers Pressure Injuries Pressure injuries are areas of necrosis and often ulceration (also called pressure ulcers) where soft tissues are compressed between bony prominences and external hard surfaces. People can manage symptoms with rest, fluids, and OTC pain relievers. Antibiotics include a range of powerful drugs that kill bacteria or slow their growth. If you notice areas of swelling, redness, pain, or heat in your skin, especially where you've had a cut, bite, or burn, seek medical care at once. Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Atrophy also may result from long-term use of potent topical corticosteroids. When papules are >1 cm in size, the appropriate term is plaque (palpable lesions elevated above the skin surface) or nodule (a larger, firm papule with a significant vertical dimension). Papulesare cutaneous, circumscribed, inflamed blemishes sometimes and solid elevation of the skin, up to 1 cmindiameter. Diagnosis is clinical. A macule is a discolored patch of skin, flat, distinct, neither raised (elevated) nor depressed - less than 1 centimeter (cm) wide. The trusted provider of medical information since 1899, Last review/revision Dec 2021 | Modified Sep 2022. Chickenpox causes red, fluid-filled blisters all over the body. Keloids: How to prevent these raised scars. Symptoms include pruritus and read more or allergic contact dermatitis Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) Contact dermatitis is inflammation of the skin caused by direct contact with irritants (irritant contact dermatitis) or allergens (allergic contact dermatitis). Acanthosis nigricans is a fairly common skin pigmentation disorder, usually notable for dark patches of skin with a thick, velvety texture. Treatment can help reduce their appearance. They may be a different color or texture compared to nearby skin. Use OR to account for alternate terms Shingrix shingles vaccination | What you should know. A patch is a large macule. Nodules are firm papules or lesions that extend into the dermis or subcutaneous tissue. A maculopapular rash caused by a virus will usually resolve once the infection goes away. Anthrax, an often fatal disease of animals, is transmitted read more , angioinvasive fungi including Rhizopus, meningococcemia Meningococcal Diseases Meningococci (Neisseria meningitidis) are gram-negative diplococci that cause meningitis and meningococcemia. Skin lesions are abnormal changes of the skin compared to the surrounding tissue. They may contain tiny black dots in the center. Macule noun A blurred or double impression in printing. In atopic dogs erythematous macules may be found in the groins or in the palmer and . Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. Sometimes these papules (elevated bumps on the skin) cluster together to form what appears like a rash and feels rough like sandpaper. Macules represent a change in color and are not raised or depressed compared to the skin surface. It may also arise in adults when it tends to persist. If a drug reaction causes the rash, it may be necessary to stop taking the medication. Wheals are a common manifestation of hypersensitivity to drugs, stings or bites, autoimmunity, and, less commonly, physical stimuli including temperature, pressure, and sunlight. American Academy of Dermatology. If you have a skin lesion (or many) that is flat and less than 1 cm in size, and want to find out whats causing it, consider seeing a dermatologist. The link you have selected will take you to a third-party website. Skin lesions. If the lesion (such as a dark spot on the skin) isnt raised and its less than 1 cm in size, its by definition a macule. Circular collection of free fluid, 1 cm . Particular body parts are affected (eg, palms or soles, scalp, mucosal membranes). If you notice any thickening of the skin around a recently healed wound, consult your dermatologist. What is macule Papule? Actinic keratosisis caused by exposure to sunlight. Typically, the individual marks last less than 24 hours, though more can continue to appear. They are more common in people with light, fair skin, or red hair. . They can also be due to a burn, skin disorder, or allergic reaction. Actinic keratosis (a precancerous condition). People with a maculopapular rash should see their doctor, especially if they experience other symptoms, as it could signal a serious illness. If you are ever concerned about a skin lesion, see a dermatologist, who can identify lesions and do mole mapping if necessary. Hemosiderin staining appears as yellow or. Verrucous lesions have an irregular, pebbly, or rough surface. In mild cases, using a special makeup to cover areas of vitiligo can be helpful. Others can be severe and cancerous. These blemishes or skin discoloration is caused by various causes. Pilar cysts are usually on the scalp and may be familial. Macular rashes usually happen in following medical conditions. Removal is not usually necessary. They are identified by simply looking at them and touching them. Lesions of psoriasis Psoriasis Psoriasis is an inflammatory disease that manifests most commonly as well-circumscribed, erythematous papules and plaques covered with silvery scales. Classic autoimmune bullous diseases include pemphigus vulgaris Pemphigus Vulgaris Pemphigus vulgaris is an uncommon, potentially fatal, autoimmune disorder characterized by intraepidermal blisters and extensive erosions on apparently healthy skin and mucous membranes. Hives are usually caused by an allergic reaction to something specific. Shinglesare caused by the reactivation of the virus that causes chickenpox. For example, complications associated with an allergic or drug reaction include the risk of anaphylaxis, a medical emergency that can be fatal. Please note: comment moderation is enabled and may delay your comment. Macule noun A blur or an appearance of a double impression, as when the paper slips a little during printing. The correct diagnosis will help ensure you get the right treatment. There is no specific read more . Rashes can have macules, patches (flat spots at least 1 cm in size), papules (raised skin lesions less than 1 cm in size), plaques (raised skin lesions at least 1 cm in size), and more,. Some people choose to embrace their vitiligo. Keloids Keloids Keloids are smooth overgrowths of fibroblastic tissue that arise in an area of injury (eg, lacerations, surgical scars, truncal acne) or, occasionally, spontaneously. See a doctor if you have signs of infection. Wash with soap and water and bandage with sterile petrolatum gauze. This type of rash is a symptom of another ailment, rather than being a condition itself. Food allergies, hormonal changes, and pet/dust mites can often worsen symptoms. Treatment depends on the cause. It can also cause other symptoms associated with infections and immune reactions, such as: Anyone who experiences other symptoms should see a doctor promptly because the infections that cause a maculopapular rash can be dangerous and may spread to other people. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Symptoms and signs vary by site of infection. Mast cell activation syndrome is increased and inappropriate activation of mast cells without clonal read more . Macule doesn't alter the texture and thickness of the skin. The Best 8 Home Remedies for Cysts: Do They Work? Figure 3 shows conjoining erythematous macules in a dog with hyperadrenocorticism. Up to 5% of normal patients may exhibit this sign, which is a form of physical urticaria. Excoriations resulting from scratching are typically linear. What Does Basal Cell Carcinoma Look Like? Warts, lichen planus, rash, insect bites, seborrheic keratoses, acne pimples or lesions, actinic keratoses, warts, bumps (white blood cells attacking an infection) and skin cancers. If enough skin is involved, some people consider depigmenting the surrounding skin to create a uniform depigmentation. Psoriasistends to look like red, flaky skin, crusty patches of skin, and silvery skin scales in fair-skinned people. They will ask where the rash started on the body and when it began. Dr. Anuj Malik answered. It spreads easily between people, but a vaccine can offer effective protection. Cutaneous tumors are often pink or red. Infection during read more , measles Measles Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that is most common among children. The autoimmune bullous diseases include Bullous pemphigoid Dermatitis herpetiformis Epidermolysis bullosa read more . They may be solitary or multiple. Induration is characteristic of panniculitis Panniculitis Panniculitis describes inflammation of the subcutaneous fat that can result from multiple causes. Actinic keratosis can be removed by freezing, scraping, or laser. Verrucous papules are bumpy warts which develop because of certain types of human papillomavirus infections. If acne does not go away or is very severe, it is a good idea to see a doctor. All read more , rubella Rubella ( See also Congenital Rubella.) The way a skin lesion looks and where it appears can help identify it. Brought to you by Merck & Co, Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA (known as MSD outside the US and Canada) dedicated to using leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world. They measure less than 10mm in diameter. Some papules may be neoplastic (Figure 4b). Skin Plaque Appearance, Causes, and Diagnosis, Pictures of Actinic Keratosis, Moles, Nevus, and Psoriasis. Skin tags usually don't require medical attention unless: Wartsare caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Macule doesnt alter the texture and thickness of the skin. Most common freckles are harmless and rarely turn into skin cancer. They can range in size and occasionally rupture. But antibiotics do not work for viral infections. Adv Skin Wound Care. When macules are >1 cm, the appropriate term is patch. When a skin lesion is irritated or undergoes changes, it is called a secondary lesion. As we just learned, papules are a type of inflammatory acne that originates in the epidermis the outer layer of the skin. Drugs, especially sulfa drugs, antiseizure drugs, and antibiotics, are the most common read more and some autoimmune bullous diseases Introduction to Bullous Diseases Bullae are elevated, fluid-filled blisters 10 mm in diameter. This photo shows a small hyperpigmented read more . Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. Sometimes, the virus will have to run its course. The rash appears as small red papules, welts, or scaly lesions. The doctor will then carry out a physical examination. Large areas of purpura may be called ecchymoses or, colloquially, bruises. Read our, Feet Eczema: Treatment, Triggers, and Lifestyle Changes, How to Tell If a Mole Is Turning Into Skin Cancer, What May Be Causing Pimples on Your Elbow, Clipping Skin Tags: How to Remove Them Safely, Skin Discoloration: Causes and Treatments. They don't have a pus-filled tip like other forms of acne. It begins with intense itching. Pustules are vesicles that contain pus. Acne is most common on: Acne occurs when your pores become blocked with dead skin or an oily secretion called sebum. You can buy this makeup at specialty drugstores and department stores. It remains contagious until all the blisters have crusted over. A macule is a small, flat, red area of discoloration, and a papule is a small, red, raised lesion. The generalized rash: Part I. Examples include cutis marmorata and livedo reticularis. Cold sores and fever blisters appear around the lip and mouth area. Scale is heaped-up accumulations of horny epithelium that occur in disorders such as psoriasis Psoriasis Psoriasis is an inflammatory disease that manifests most commonly as well-circumscribed, erythematous papules and plaques covered with silvery scales. Macules are flat, nonpalpable lesions usually < 10 mm in diameter. Impetigo is very contagious. Telangiectases are foci of small, permanently dilated blood vessels that may occur in areas of sun damage, rosacea Rosacea Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by facial flushing, telangiectasias, erythema, papules, pustules, and, in severe cases, rhinophyma. It appears as an itchy, red rash. Avoiding the trigger can clear up the rash and prevent recurrence. A macule is a discolored patch of skin that doesn't feel different than the rest of your skin.