Suggest Treatment For Rash On The Abdomen

Posted on Fri, 19 Sep 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 19 Sep 2014 Answered on

Sat, 11 Oct 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : My wife has this rash after giving birth at a hospital. The rash is in the same area as the fetal heart/contraction monitor were placed.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (20 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Herpes Zoster

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome to healthcaremagic

I am Dr. Kakkar. I have gone through your query and I have also seen the photo.

This looks like Herpes Zoster to me, grouped discrete fluid filled vesicles arranged in a stripe like pattern across the body on one half, with mid line cut off. There is usually associated pain and burning sensation.

I would suggest an oral antiviral e.g Tab Acyclovir 800 mg, every 6 hourly for 7 days. Acyclovir can be given to breast feeding mother and is safe.

Topically she may use an OTC antibacterial e.g 2% mupirocin ointment, twice daily.

Regards

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Kakkar (3 minutes later)

This is her husband writing in...
1) If it is shingles, what kind of effect will this have on our newborn (and she breastfeeds)
2) I have NOT had chicken pox. Should I be concerned?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Kakkar (6 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Herpes Zoster

Detailed Answer:
Hi.

-Newborn would be safe because the baby would have maternal antibodies circulating for 6 months.
-Zoster is not normally a cause for chicken pox in adults, chicken pox is commonly acquired through the respiratory route. However, she must take acyclovir which would reduce her infectivity.

Regards

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar