Rash in children is common. The differential diagnoses are extensive, ranging from self-limiting conditions (e.g., roseola) to life-threatening illnesses such as meningococcal disease.
Rash may be the first indication of a potentially serious multiorgan disease or sepsis and should be carefully evaluated (see Urgent considerations).
Rash may be categorized as maculopapular, pustular, vesiculobullous, diffuse/erythematous, or petechial/purpuric in nature. In many etiologies these forms may coexist or evolve from one form to another.
Initial considerations in evaluating a rash in children include the morphology, duration, and distribution. Age, sex, family history, medications, known allergies, and exposures are also of primary importance.
Generally, rash in the absence of fever or systemic symptoms is not urgent.
