Pediatric Advisor 10.0: Localized Rash without Itching: Unknown Cause

Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
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Localized Rash without Itching: Unknown Cause

DESCRIPTION

	red or pink rash (erythema)
	smooth or slightly bumpy
	spots or solid red
	on one part of body (localized or clustered)
	not itchy.

CAUSES

There are many possible causes, such as:

scalp location in a child less than 3 months old
Cradle Cap
face location
Acne
fingers location (peeling finger tips)
Scarlet Fever
genital location
Diaper Rash
nostrils (nasal openings) location
Impetigo
variable location
Boils
Impetigo
Newborn Rashes
(in a child less than 1 month old)
Ringworm

EXPECTED COURSE

Depends on the diagnosis.

HOME CARE FOR LOCALIZED RASHES OF UNKNOWN CAUSE

Localized red rashes can be due to some chemical or other irritant your child got on his skin. In such cases, no special treatment is necessary. Wash the rash once with soap to remove any irritating substances. Thereafter, cleanse it only with water. Don't use any medications or petroleum jelly on this rash. If the rash seems dry, apply hand lotion twice a day.

CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY IF:

	It looks like an infection (bright red AND tender to the touch)
	The rash is purple or blood-colored spots or dots.
	Your child is acting very sick.

CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN DURING OFFICE HOURS IF:

	The rash becomes more than 2 inches in size.
	It lasts more than 1 week.
	You have other concerns or questions.

Written by B.D. Schmitt, M.D., author of "Your Child's Health," Bantam Books.