WTF? Is it herpes on my back?
Dear Dr. Dick,
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!
--Dr. Dick