Large Tender Red Bumps, Extremely Painful, Clusteted On Left Ribcage.

Brief Answer:
Tender red bumps clustered in the ribcage area can be due to shingles but more information is needed, and if possible, kindly upload pictures of the rash

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome to "Ask a Doctor" service.

I carefully read your query.
The first impression when reading about painful red bumps clustered on the ribcage is shingles.

On the other hand, there are other possible causes of tender red bumps on the chest so having some more information on the rash and also having a picture or two would be very helpful to better evaluate you.

I kindly ask you to let me know about the following:
- do you have any fever?
- where exactly is the rash, does it cross the midline of the front chest or back (in between shoulders)?
- have you tried any treatment and how is their effect?
- have you seen a doctor already?
- is this the first time you have such a rash?
- have you had chickenpox previously?
- do you have any chronic condition or use medications regularly?
- do you have any other complaints?

I hope to hear back from you with the above-requested information and if possible a couple of images.

Regards,
Dr. Antoneta Zotaj,
General and Family Physician

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