Acute exanthems in children

Abstract

The numerous viral skin diseases that affect children present a diagnostic challenge to the clinician. Most of these diseases may be conveniently grouped according to the clinical appearance of the exanthem as maculopapular, petechial, papular, or vesicular. In some situations, viral infection may be difficult to differentiate clinically from nonviral disease; thus, extensive laboratory evaluation is sometimes necessary to pinpoint the virus involved. Nonviral disease should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a patient with skin eruptions, especially of the maculopapular type. Common nonviral causes include Kawasaki disease, toxic shock syndrome, and drug reactions.

Performance of rubella suspect case definition: implications for surveillance

“…7,18 Besides, the most common symptoms of rubella (maculopapular rash, low-grade fever, posterior cervical and suboccipital adenopathy, and arthralgia/arthritis, especially in adult females) can easily be mistaken for other rash diseases. 1,8,14,16 Therefore, a definitive diagnosis of rubella can be made only by specific laboratory methods. 18 Mass immunization against rubella was gradually implemented by Brazilian states in primary care units between 1992 and 2000, in campaigns targeting children aged 1-11 years.…”