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Overview
Few rashes affect the palms and soles.
Some need prompt testing.
When to get medical care
Call 911Fever with confusion.
Get care todayFever after a tick bite.
See a doctor soonRash on palms or soles.
Causes
Causes include viral infections, syphilis, and tick-borne illness.
OwieClear has pages on 1 condition that can cause rash on palms or soles. Each shows how soon to get care.
Common causes
- SyphilisSee a doctor if it doesn't get better
A bacterial STI that often starts as a painless sore.
What you can do at home
- Note other symptoms.
Medicines
Depends on cause.
At the doctor
Tests check.
Questions you may be asked
- Exposures
The exam
A skin exam.
Tests
- Blood tests
Prevention
Lower risk.
- Use condoms
- Prevent tick bites
Check your symptoms
Most symptoms have more than one possible cause. The symptom checker looks at all of your symptoms together, plus your age, and shows how soon to get care.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-13.