Hi doctor,

I am a 23 year old male and about five days ago I developed rash on my lower back. As you can see on the photos, it encapsulates 3 red clusters among which the middle one, which also appears to be almost bruise-like, is causing mild itching. It is rough to touch and does not cause any pain. However, itching does seem to intensify after sweating from working out and it appears that it is easier to refrain from itching in somewhat cooler environment. Over the 5 days period this rash does not show significant expansion and so far it is consistent in color.

Photos:
day-2 (taken at nightime)


day-4 (taken in daytime)


day-4 high resolution


The last sexual intercourse I had 4 months ago with my ex-girlfriend, I never had chickenpox before and I do not have bed bugs. There are no recent additions to my diet and I do not have any allergies that I am aware of. Other than having this rash and experiencing stress from a school related matter, I believe that I am healthy.

My question is could this be HSV-2, cancer, or an HIV symptom?

I understand that it is hard to tell diagnosis without proper testing, but I am very worried and I would greatly appreciate any response.

Thank you.