What Causes Red Rashes On The Thighs?

Posted on Sat, 17 Sep 2016

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

Sat, 17 Sep 2016 Answered on

Fri, 7 Oct 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I am a 50 year old caucasian women I just noticed that both of my thighs are bright red and purple i took pictures if you want to see my email is YYYY@YYYY

I'm concerned because my legs started looking like this out of the blue about two hours ago. I noticed the turn around is up to 24 hours Im wondering if its safe for me to wait this long The normal color of my legs are lightly XXXXXXX this isn't normal

Answered by Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini Greca (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Suspected cellulits/erysipelas, please go to ER for immediate evaluation...

Detailed Answer:
Hi my dear,

I have just received your e-mail and photos you sent in and noted the rash on your thighs (bright red and purple rash on thighs).
It seems like cellulitis/erysipelas, especially if the affected area is warm when touching and if you feel to have a fever.

I highly recommend to go to ER and get immediate evaluation and treatment there. You can't wait for 24 hours. Blood might need to get drawn to evaluate the levels of WBC and other blood elements.

Take all the meds you are currently taking with you at ER to show to doctors there. Report any other symptoms you might be feeling apart the rash.

Wish fast recovery! Let me know how it goes.
Dr.Albana

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