Leukaemia rash: what to know

Skin changes can include small red or purple spots that do not fade when pressed, bruising, raised or scaly patches, itching, or tender areas. A leukaemia rash is not a single appearance, and many common skin conditions can look similar.

Low platelets can make bruising and pinpoint bleeding easier. Infection may cause redness, warmth, swelling or drainage, while medicines can trigger an allergic or inflammatory reaction. The clinician will consider the timing, distribution, symptoms, blood counts and current treatment.

Take a clear photograph, note when the rash began, and record new medicines, products, fever, pain or itching. Contact the oncology team before applying a medicated cream or taking an anti-inflammatory medicine, because low blood counts and treatment interactions can change what is suitable.

The team may inspect the skin, check blood counts, review medicines and test for infection. Management could involve changing a suspected medicine, treating infection, protecting the skin, or addressing the leukaemia with chemotherapy or targeted therapy.

Get emergency help for a rash with facial or throat swelling, wheezing, trouble breathing, blistering, skin peeling, confusion, or faintness. During leukaemia treatment, contact the oncology service urgently for fever, rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, pus, or new widespread pinpoint spots or bleeding.

Ask whether the rash could reflect low platelets, infection, leukaemia or a medicine; whether a blood count or skin test is needed; and which creams, soaps and pain medicines are safe for you. Ask what changes should prompt an immediate call.