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What Do Red Bumps On Face And Body Indicate?
Question: Hi - My 10 year old son came home from school last Thursday with red cheeks and a few red bumps on his cheeks as well. Over the next few days, this spread to his arms, chest, and back. These small, individual, red bumps soon joined together into red areas, like a mild sunburn, that were slightly raised and his face and area under his chin became a little puffy. Low-grade fever, mild fatigue as well. We visited the doctor, nurse practitioner actually. She seemed unsure, but thought it was an allergic rash since he has had some respiratory allergies lately. She changed his daily Claritin to Benadryl at night and something similar to Zyrtec during the day. No improvement. In fact, the rash now appears on his legs all the way to his feet, though the chest, back, and face have cleared up a bit. It itches constantly. The upper arms become a very angry red.
Can't think of anything unusual ingested. We did acquire a dog a few months ago; she gets into the surrounding field which they just spread with fertilizer and has occasionally gotten into his bed (where she is not allowed), right where his torso would be.
Allergy? Fifths disease? Should I be concerned or take him to another doctor?
Thank you in advance for your thoughts.
Brief Answer:
fifth disease should also be considered.
Detailed Answer:
Hello dear,
Welcome to healthcaremagic.
I have read your query and understood your concern for your son.
As per details, the possibilities of allergic rash are more but some points are also in favor of fifth disease.
In fifth disease, a characteristic slapped cheek appearance is present with erythema involving both cheeks. But there is sparing of perioral, periocular area and nose . Itch may be present.
Subsequently rash appear on trunk and limbs. Also history of fever and constitutional symptoms is often present.
if these features are present, consideration should be given for parvovirus infection : fifth disease.
I will advice you to upload some pics of the lesions of your child if possible. You should pay attention to it and should consult some good experienced doctor in person for proper evaluation and examination.
Till then, you may give antihistaminics to your child like benadryl for symptomatic relief.
I hope it helps.
If you have any further query you may ask me.
Good luck.
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Answered by
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