Dear Dog-ter,
I’ve got some kinda rash thing on my back way above my asshole. It looks like when I got herpes, but it’s on my back. What the fuck?
—WTF

Dear WTF,
It’s hard to tell from that little bit of information what the rash might be, but herpes (whether it’s Herpes Simplex or Herpes Zoster) usually starts with a tingling or burning or even aching in the area involved.

Then almost simultaneously small blisters (fluid-filled) form that are hypersensitive, that usually break, leaving ulcers that may weep a few days then scab over.

It’s possible that herpes simplex could occur there, but unusual. Herpes simplex usually involves a mucosal surface (like the penis, testicles--balls, or around the anus or mouth).

Herpes zoster is more likely up on the back, and is a re-occurrence of chicken pox--which is the same virus only localized, and is usually in a band-like distribution. Zoster is often more painful and more prolonged.

But there are a myriad of other rashes which might be what’s going on…so be advised to see a dermatologist or a good doctor for starters!

And DON’T SCRATCH!

—the Dog-ter

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