Wednesday 26 September 2007

Fever and rash in an 8-month-old

Our 8-month-old son has been very hot for the last 4 days. I have seen his doctor who has not been able to find a cause and just prescribed Tylenol when he is irritable. He has developed a red spotty rash today but seems less feverish. Is this measles?

No, this is not measles. From your description he has had Roseola. It is also known as “erythema subitum”. Erythema means redness and subitum refers to the subsidence of the fever. Thus, as the fever stops the rash appears.

This is a viral infection that is very difficult to diagnose until the rash appears. The rash will disappear in a couple of days and your child will be happy and well.

2 comments:

Raleigh NC Pediatrician said...

You should take her in to see a Children Doctor and HealthCare Specialist.

read more said...

Fever represents a universal, ancient, and usually beneficial response to infection, and its suppression under most circumstances has few, if any, benefits. The fact that there is little to no evidence that Tylenol/Advil therapy contributes to health has not stopped marketers, and sadly, most doctors from continuing to give patents this bad advice.