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Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Spanish version
Widespread Rash without Itching: Unknown Cause
DESCRIPTION
- red or pink rash (erythema)
- smooth or slightly bumpy
- spots or solid red
- over most of body (widespread or generalized)
- not itchy.
SIMILAR CONDITION
Fever over 103 or 104 degrees F (39.5 or 40 degrees C) can
cause a pinkness of the skin. Sometimes it's blotchy. If
it clears with fever reduction, it's normal. If the rash is
itchy, see Widespread Itching: Unknown Cause.
CAUSES
The possible causes of a nonitchy pink or red rash are many,
including:
Ampicillin Rash
Chickenpox
Heat Rash
Measles
Measles Vaccine Rash
Newborn Rashes
(infant under 2 weeks old)
Roseola
Scarlet Fever
Sunburn
EXPECTED COURSE
Depends on the diagnosis.
HOME CARE
Treatment for a viral rash: Widespread rashes can occur
with viral illnesses. No treatment is necessary. These
rashes are unimportant and usually disappear within 48
hours.
CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY IF:
- The rash is purple or blood-colored spots or dots.
- Your child is acting very sick.
CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN WITHIN 24 HOURS IF:
- Your child has a fever (over 100 degrees F, or
37.8 degrees C).
- Your child is taking a medicine.
- The rash has been present more than 48 hours.
- You have other concerns or questions.
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