Neck Rash

What is a neck rash?

A neck rash is an inflammatory reaction of the skin covering the neck, which includes the front of the neck between the head and the chest and the nape of the neck just below the hairline in the back.

Neck rashes vary greatly in appearance, location and severity depending on the underlying cause. Neck rashes can be red, white, purple or silver in color, and raised, bumpy or flat in texture. They can appear as dots or spots or occur in a large, continuous area. Neck rashes can also include flushing and scaling or flaking off of skin cells.

Neck rashes are commonly due to acne, dermatitis, mild allergic reactions, and inflammatory disorders. Most neck rashes do not cause any permanent harm and they usually disappear on their own or by following the treatment plan outlined by your health care provider. However, some rashes may be caused by a serious underlying infectious disease, such as meningitis, or an allergic reaction accompanied by hives and anaphylaxis.

A rash of purple spots (petechiae) that occurs with a fever can indicate a serious, potentially life-threatening condition, such as bacterial meningitis. A neck rash that is associated with allergies combined with shortness of breath, wheezing, or swelling of the face, mouth or throat is also a symptom of a serious, potentially life-threatening condition called anaphylaxis. Seek immediate medical care (call 911) if you, or someone you are with, have any of these symptoms.