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Identify Shingles on Black and Brown Skin

How to identify shingles on black and brown skin

You might be familiar with the look of shingles rash on white skin which is typically a patch of skin that is very red and inflamed. This is called erythema and is due to the dilation of blood vessels in the skin. Erythema [2] can happen to anybody of any skin color, however, it can be different on black and brown skin. Because of this, it can be hard to identify some types of skin conditions.

For example, a 2020 study, discovered that medical students could only correctly identify hives on black and brown skin 57.5% of the time and on white skin 82.2% of the time. This explains that skin conditions are easier to identify on white skin. Although shingles rash is very distinct in appearance and symptoms. In the same study, medical students were able to identify shingles on the skin of color at the same rate as on white skin.  Nevertheless, it is still very important to be able to identify shingles on black and brown skin. This will help identify and treat early which would reduce the duration and severity of the shingles can be reduced. Continue reading to know how to identify shingles on black skin.

Early rash

Shingles rash usually first appears as a small bump in the affected area. You may also observe that the skin around these bumps appears to be slightly swollen. Early shingle lesions are usually discolored compared to the rest of your skin. The color depends on your skin tone, they may appear dark pink, dark brown, or purplish.

The shingles rash can be painful and unbearable and in some cases, it may itch. Because of this, shingles rash can easily be mistaken for eczema [3] or another type of dermatitis in its early stage. A thorough diagnosis will need to be done to confirm one’s condition.

Vesicles

Vesicles form when the shingles rash continues to develop. A vesicle is a fluid-filled sac that forms under your skin. Vesicles can occur on any other skin condition, but shingles resemble blisters. Your doctor will look out for shingles when trying to make a diagnosis.

The vesicles in some people with shingles may appear only scattered through the affected area. However, in some cases, the vesicles can merge and form an area that looks like a burn and plaque. The fluid-filled part of the vesicles can appear grey or white. Meanwhile, the color of the skin surrounding the vesicles is also discolored and it depends on the skin tone. It may appear, dark pink, dark brown, or purple.

You may continue to experience pain and itching all through this stage. Eventually, the vesicles will break open and scab over.