Hi.
If there is a high index of suspicion for scabies, it is necessary to avoid skin to skin contact as much as possible. Avoid unnecessarily touching the areas affected and try to keep these areas covered. Washing personal belongings like linens and beddings may also be a good measure of prevention. In your case, the diagnosis of scabies needs to be ascertained first. A consult with a dermatologist will be able to help as skin scrapings of the involved areas may readily show the mites under microscopy. Topical medications are given for scabetic infections.
Scabies is just a differential here. However, eczematous disease may also have linear and nummular (roundish ) patterns .It is best to have these conditions differentiated.
I have not had any other symptoms besides the rash. I do work in a hospital so exposure to someone with scabies is likely. How is that treated?
Hi.
One condition I can think of when you describe linear rash that itches is scabies.
Have you had any previous exposure to anyone with scabies?
This may need a physician's complete physical examination and assessment. I suggest that you seek consult with a dermatologist so that microscopic evaluation of skin scrapings from the area may be done to help determine the cause of the rash.
Have you had any prior flulike symptoms, fever or joint pains before the rash?
Any history of travel or camping activities?