Human skin can be called an indicator of health. This is especially true of a small child, whose skin is very sensitive to any changes - both in external conditions and in the general state of internal organs and body systems.
Skin rashes can be of a different nature. Some of them are not dangerous, others are a signal for the development of an allergic, infectious or autoimmune process. It is impossible to ignore a rash in a child or treat it yourself without finding out the root cause.
Skin rashes are very common in young children.Types of rash in babies
In dermatology, three large groups are distinguished into which all possible skin rashes in infants are distributed:
- Physiological. This type of rash occurs in newborns. Rashes appear on the body as a result of hormonal changes in the body.
- Immunological. It is a consequence of the effect on the epidermis of various irritating factors, for example, allergens, temperature or friction. These rashes include hives, prickly heat, an allergic reaction, or atopic dermatitis. Violation of basic hygiene rules can also lead to the appearance of undesirable manifestations.
- Infectious. A rash is a symptom that accompanies a certain infectious (viral) disease, for example, chickenpox or scarlet fever (for more details, see the article :).
Causes of the appearance of rashes
There are many reasons why rashes can occur on the head, face, arms, legs, sternum, back, or back of the head. The most likely are:
- Diseases of a viral nature. These include measles, rubella, chickenpox, and mononucleosis.
- Diseases of bacterial etiology. For example, scarlet fever.
- Allergy. Food products, hygiene products, clothing, household chemicals, perfumes and cosmetics, insect bites are capable of causing an allergic reaction.
- Mechanical damage to the epidermis. If the wound is not properly treated, irritation of the skin around it may begin, manifesting itself in the form of pimples, white dots, colorless blisters, goose bumps, red or pink spots.
- Blood clotting problems. In this situation, the rash is a small bleeding characteristic of meningococcal meningitis.
So, rash in babies is of different types and has a different etiology. It is not worthwhile to independently diagnose and determine the type of rashes using photos from the Internet, even with good explanations. This should be done by a specialist.
Diseases accompanied by rashes
Any type of rash on the body is a symptom of the disease. They can be very different in appearance. The rash is papular, small-punctate, or, conversely, in the form of large dots or pimples. It comes in a variety of colors, ranging from sheer or white to bright red. The characteristics describing the rash directly depend on their etiology or the disease that they accompany.
Dermatological diseases
Among the diseases of dermatological etiology, the symptoms of which are a variety of rashes, it can be noted:
- dermatoses (for example);
- psoriasis;
- eczema;
- candidiasis and other diseases of the epidermis.
Almost always, skin diseases are caused by problems with internal organs and systems in conjunction with the influence of external factors. For example, neurodermatitis can be triggered by malfunctions of the nervous and endocrine systems against the background of a decrease in immunity. In such a situation, complex therapy is required using medications, and not just ointments or creams.
Psoriasis on the hands of a child As for psoriasis, at the initial stage it looks like an allergic reaction, but over time, the plaques acquire a characteristic appearance. Another name for the disease is squamous lichen. Psoriasis and eczema are very rare in children of one month old. Genetic predisposition to these diseases only after 2 years.
Allergic reaction
One of the main symptoms of allergies is a rash. A negative reaction is the result of taking medications or eating certain foods. With various shapes and sizes, rashes can spread throughout the body, including the face, chest, and limbs.
The main characteristic difference between an allergy rash is an increase in its severity when exposed to an allergen and disappearance after the exclusion of the irritant. Another feature is the presence of severe itching.
The most common manifestations of an allergic rash are:
- ... Occurs due to food, drugs and temperature factors. Sometimes it is impossible to determine the true cause of urticaria.
- ... It is a papular red rash that coalesces and crusts as it develops. It most often occurs on the face, cheeks, and where the arms and legs bend. It is accompanied by itching.
Atopic dermatitis or eczema Infectious diseases
Quite often, a rash is a sign of an infectious disease. The most famous of them:
- ... The child develops characteristic watery bubbles, which dry up to form a crust. They are characterized by itching. The temperature may also rise, but sometimes the disease goes away without it.
- ... The main symptoms are enlarged lymph nodes in the neck and a rash in the form of small red spots or dots that first appear on the face, and then move to the neck, shoulders and further spread throughout the body.
- ... It manifests itself in the form of round spots and nodules behind the ears, spreading over the body. The disease is also accompanied by peeling, pigmentation disorders, fever, conjunctivitis, cough and photophobia.
- ... Initially, the rash is localized on the cheeks, then go to the limbs, chest and trunk. The rash gradually becomes more pale. Scarlet fever is also characterized by a bright red color of the palate and tongue.
- ... It starts with a rise in temperature. The fever lasts about three days, after which a small, punctate, red rash appears on the body.
- ... It is characterized by a red itchy rash.
The symptoms of chickenpox are difficult to confuse with those of another infection. 
Rash with rubella 
Signs of measles 
Roseola rash Rash in a newborn
The sensitive skin of newborns is most susceptible to negative external influences. Among the most common cases of rashes on the baby's body are noted:
- ... It usually appears in a child due to heat, overheating and difficulty in sweating. Most often, this type of rash forms on the head, in particular under the hair, on the face, in the folds of the skin, where diaper rash is present. Rashes are blisters and spots that do not cause discomfort to the child (see also:). For diaper rash, the time-tested PanthenolSpray with dexpanthenol, a precursor of vitamin B5 that stimulates skin regeneration, is also used. Unlike analogues, which are cosmetic products, this is a certified medicinal product, it can be used from the first day of a child's life. It is convenient to apply - just spray on the skin without rubbing. PanthenolSpray is produced in the European Union, in compliance with high European quality standards, you can find out the original PanthenolSpray by the smiley next to the name on the package.
- ... Inflamed papules and pustules affect the face, scalp under hair, and neck. They are a consequence of the activation of the sebaceous glands through the mother's hormones. Acne like this usually does not need to be treated, but you should provide good skin care and hydration. They pass without leaving a trace, leaving no scars or pale spots.
- ... It manifests itself in the form of papules and pustules, which have a white-yellow color, with a diameter of 1 to 2 mm, surrounded by a red rim. They appear on the second day of life, then gradually pass on their own.
Prickly heat on the face of a baby How to determine the disease by localization of the rash?
One of the important characteristics of body rashes is their localization. It is by the fact on which part of the body the spots, dots or pimples are located, it is possible to determine the nature of the problem and the disease that became the root cause of their appearance.
Naturally, this is not the only parameter that is necessary to establish an accurate diagnosis, but it is quite possible to reduce the number of variants of ailments. However, a dermatologist should analyze the factors that caused the appearance of a rash on a particular part of the body, and how to treat it, in order to avoid the serious consequences of self-medication.
Rash on the face
One of the parts of the body that is most susceptible to all sorts of dermatitis is the face.
In addition to the fact that the appearance of small pimples or spots on the face indicates pathologies in the body, such defects are still becoming an aesthetic problem.
The reasons why the rash affects the facial area can be very diverse:
- Reaction to sunlight. Occurs with prolonged exposure to the sun.
- Allergy. It can be caused by cosmetics, for example, creams, which are based on citrus oils. Food is often the cause.
- Prickly heat. It is observed in infants one year old and younger with poor-quality skin care.
- Diathesis. It affects children who are breastfed.
- Puberty in adolescents.
- Infectious diseases. Among them are measles, rubella and scarlet fever.
Rash all over the body
Quite often, the rash affects more than one specific area, but spreads almost throughout the body.
Allergic rash in a newborn If the child is covered with various kinds of rashes, this indicates:
- Erythema toxic. The rash affects 90% of the body. Comes off within 3 days after the elimination of toxins.
- Acne of a newborn (we recommend to read :). Bathing with baby soap, air baths, care and proper nutrition are the solution to this problem.
- Allergic reaction. It can manifest itself as hives or contact dermatitis anywhere on the body where contact with the allergen has occurred.
- Infections. If nothing has changed in the child's diet and habits, then the possible cause of the rash is an infectious disease.
Red dots on the arms and legs
As for the rash on the extremities, allergies are usually the main cause. Especially such allergic manifestations affect the hands. They can remain on the skin for a long time if the child experiences constant stress, emotional distress and fatigue. If you run the problem, it can escalate into eczema.
Another reason it can sprinkle on hands and feet is a fungal disease (such as psoriasis, scabies, or lupus). In cases where the rash is absent elsewhere, a simple prickly rash is possible.
Allergic rash on the child's foot A rash on the abdomen
The main factor that can trigger the appearance of a rash on the abdomen is infection, in particular, such well-known diseases as measles, rubella, scarlet fever and chickenpox. With timely and competent treatment, the rash begins to disappear as early as 3-4 days.
Usually, in addition to the abdomen, the skin is also affected in other places. However, if the rash is present exclusively on the abdomen, then contact dermatitis is most likely due to an allergen in contact with the baby's tummy.
Rash on the head and neck
A rash on the head or neck is most often the result of prickly heat. In this case, the child's thermoregulation should be normalized and proper skin care should be provided. You can also smear the affected areas with ointments and bathe the crumbs in succession.
Among other reasons for the appearance of a rash in these places are:
- chicken pox;
- scabies (we recommend reading :);
- neonatal pustulosis;
- atopic dermatitis.
Atopic dermatitis Red dots on the back
The most common causes of red spots on the back and shoulders are:
- allergy;
- prickly heat;
- insect bites;
- measles;
- rubella (we recommend reading :);
- scarlet fever.
Two more probable diseases associated with such a place of localization of red dots as the back are:
- Sepsis of bacterial origin. Pimples of red color quickly spread throughout the body, turning into purulent formations. The disease is accompanied by loss of appetite, vomiting and nausea, temperature up to 38 degrees.
- ... In addition to a rash, subcutaneous hemorrhages are observed on the child's back, a high temperature instantly rises and there is constant pain in the area where the occipital muscles are located.
Bacterial sepsis White and discolored rash
In addition to the usual pimples or spots of red and pink color, the rash can be white or discolored. Most often, the white color of the rash is characteristic of an allergic reaction, in an adult - for diseases of an infectious etiology. Rashes of this kind on the face indicate a common blockage of the sebaceous glands.
As for the colorless color of the rash, it indicates the presence of:
- vitamin deficiency;
- hormonal disruption in the body;
- problems in the functioning of the digestive system;
- fungal infection;
- allergies.
Sometimes a small rash may appear on the baby's skin, which looks like goose bumps. This sign indicates an allergic reaction due to hypersensitivity to various irritants, especially to drugs. Children with a hereditary predisposition are more susceptible to it.
Babies often have a rash on their bodies. It can have a different nature, so you need to start treatment based on its appearance and localization. Symptoms accompanying the rash are also important. They primarily differ in their appearance: size, color, shape, and also localization.
Types of rashes on the body
The main types of rash are as follows:
First of all, for any type of small rash in a child, it must be shown to a specialist. Because only an experienced doctor can make an accurate diagnosis. Self-medication can be very dangerous in some cases.
Place of localization of spots
It is very important to pay attention to exactly where the spot is located. Thanks to this, it will be possible to determine the initial illness of the baby, which provoked the appearance of the rash.
The reasons for the appearance of spots on the face can be:
If the entire body is covered with a rash, the following factors should be considered:
- the presence of an infection in the body;
- allergies, manifested in the form of contact dermatitis or urticaria;
- acne of a newborn. The solution to this problem is proper nutrition and care, air baths and bathing with baby soap;
- toxic erythema. Affects approximately 90% of the skin. It passes 3 days after the removal of toxins from the body.
As for rashes on the legs and arms, they most likely speak of allergies. Such a rash can cover the baby's limbs for a long time, especially if he is under stress, constantly gets tired. If you do not pay attention to it in a timely manner, it can develop into eczema.
In addition, other diseases can cause rashes on the arms and legs: scabies, psoriasis, and even lupus. But if there are no spots in other places, there is a chance that the child has simple prickly heat.
Infectious ailments contribute to the appearance of spots on the abdomen: chickenpox, scarlet fever, rubella, measles. If the therapy is started correctly and on time, the spots will begin to disappear on the third day. If there are no rashes in other places, then the child may have contact dermatitis, which is caused by an allergen that comes into contact with the baby's tummy.
A rash on the neck or head is most often the result of a sweat. It is necessary to provide proper care for the baby's skin and normalize thermoregulation. You can bathe the baby in a row and smear the affected areas with ointments. But there are other ailments that provoke the appearance of spots in these places: atopic dermatitis, neonatal pustulosis, scabies, chickenpox.
The most common causes of red spots on the back and shoulders are scarlet fever, rubella, measles, insect bites, prickly heat and allergies. But it can also speak of rather serious diseases.
White dots
The rash is usually pink or red in color. But in some cases, the rash is white, they appear if the child has allergies, fungal infections, digestive system problems, hormonal imbalance, vitamin deficiency.
A small rash on the body of a child can be caused by the following factors:
In infants
In the first weeks after birth, an active hormonal change occurs in the baby's body, as evidenced by rashes on his skin. Most parents turn to specialists due to the fact that a small rash has appeared in the baby all over the body.
However, in infants, this is a common occurrence. At elevated ambient temperatures, their sweat glands actively secrete sweat. Therefore, in places of natural folds - under the arms, in the groin, on the priest and face, a small reddish rash appears. The skin is damp to the touch.
Prickly sweat is not a dangerous ailment and, after a while, goes away on its own. But parents need to be aware that the influence of factors such as a long stay in a wet diaper or in hot clothes in an infant can provoke diaper rash. When caring for a newborn, the mother should carefully monitor the condition of the baby's skin and notice any changes on it.
Keep in mind that babies can very often develop allergies to clothing materials, hygiene products or food. When developing children's immunity, they must be protected from external stimuli.
Diseases accompanied by rashes
A small red rash can occur not only with prickly heat, but also with other childhood diseases.
Chicken pox
This disease is most common in children. Almost every child is sick with it. Chickenpox is characterized by a small red itchy rash, which is replaced by small blisters that barely rise above the surface of the skin.
These blisters contain infectious fluid. After the blister bursts, a small red appearance remains in its place. The child feels the most unpleasant sensations with rashes in the mouth, in the genitals and on the inner side of the eyelids. From the period of infection to the appearance of the first red rashes, 11 days pass. Very often, the patient has a headache and body temperature rises. Don't comb the rash, as this can delay the healing process.
You can help the kid by smearing the wounds with brilliant green or a solution of potassium permanganate. It is necessary to minimize leaving the house and contact with people around during the period of illness.
Measles
This viral disease is very rare in our times. Its first symptoms can be easily confused with digestive problems or colds. Only after 4-7 days do red rashes appear. They are preceded by fever and fever, sometimes reaching 40 degrees. The gums are the first to suffer from the rash and the mucous membrane of the child's cheeks. After this, the spots spread to the neck and face, shoulders, abdomen, back and chest. Last but not least, the rash appears on the limbs. When the disease begins to pass, the skin in their places becomes brown. This disease can provoke serious consequences. Therapy is prescribed only by a specialist.
Rubella
This ailment is highly contagious. The incubation period is asymptomatic and lasts about 21 days. The first rashes can be found behind the ears and on the back of the head. After a short period of time, the disease passes to the body of the crumbs. At the same time, the baby's body temperature rises. There are no specific medications available to treat this sore.
Roseola
Every infant under 2 years of age can face this disease.... Pronounced signs of the onset of an ailment are:
- sore throat;
- increased body temperature;
- enlarged lymph nodes.
After that, small red spots appear on the baby's face and spread at high speed throughout the body. This ailment is contagious, but does not need therapy. Passes by itself.
Scarlet fever
The first sign of its appearance is a high fever and the appearance on the tongue of a characteristic rash in the form of pimples. Scarlet fever is provoked by streptococcus. The latent phase of the disease has a period of 3-7 days. Rashes are added on the lower and upper limbs, face and body. When the spots disappear, peeling of the skin begins in their place. During this period, the person is contagious. It is best to exclude contact with people around you.
Meningitis
This is a very dangerous disease., even newborn babies are susceptible to it. Symptoms of the manifestation are as follows:
- the appearance of rashes;
- stiffness and hardness of the occipital muscles;
- drowsiness;
- an increase in body temperature, which is accompanied by vomiting.
The rash appears as small subcutaneous spots that look like an injection mark or a mosquito bite. They appear primarily on the buttocks and abdomen. After that, they move to the legs and spread throughout the body. If you do not take any measures in time, then the rash in size and volume will increase and become similar to bruises. If medical care is not provided on time, a fatal outcome is possible.
Allergic reactions in children
In the modern world, there are many factors that irritate children's delicate skin. Very often, a rash on a child's body is a manifestation of an allergic reaction. It can have a different appearance: small blisters, pimples or spots. ... It can be localized on any part of the skin.... With food allergies, rashes are most often observed on the abdomen and back, and with a reaction to clothing, on the legs, arms, shoulders, and sometimes even on the feet.
In any situation, it is necessary to consult a doctor, this will help to avoid complications and undesirable consequences. Since with severe allergies, Quincke's edema may develop or a malfunction of the internal organs may occur.
The most common manifestations of an allergic reaction are as follows.
- Atopic dermatitis, which is a red papular rash. They merge over time and become covered with a crust. The place of their localization is most often the bends of the limbs, cheeks and face. They are accompanied by itching.
- Urticaria appears due to temperature factors, medicines and food. There are situations when it is impossible to determine the exact cause of this ailment.
Insect bites
In summer, the rash can be the result of an insect bite - ants, midges or mosquitoes. The bite site can make itself felt for several days, it constantly itches, causing inconvenience to the child.
But here's a hornet bite, a wasp or a bee is a lot more troublesome. They pierce the skin with a sting and inject poison, causing swelling, swelling and severe pain. Such bites are also dangerous because after them the baby may develop an allergy, and the rash spreads all over the body, while the child feels severe itching and pain. Along with this, breathing disorder and fainting are possible, and in some situations anaphylactic shock.
The bite site should be well inspected., remove the sting from it, give the baby an antihistamine and monitor his condition.
The most common problem faced by parents of babies is skin rashes.
The collected answers to many exciting questions in this area will help to cope with it easier.
Types of rash in newborns
The first 4 weeks after birth are considered the neonatal period.
The skin of a newborn baby has not yet fully developed, therefore, it is too delicate and sensitive. In addition, it is the largest surface in contact with the outside world.
Any effects of the external environment and various processes occurring in a small organism will cause different reactions on the skin.
These can be various types of rashes on the skin of a newborn:
- - pink, red, white;
- papules - in the form of nodules or tubercles;
- plaques - thickening, seals that rise above the level of the skin;
- - with swelling of the papillae of the dermis, dense formations;
- bubbles - exudative elements;
- pustules - bubbles with purulent contents.
In newborns, the following skin diseases occur:
- toxic erythema;
- acne in newborns;
- prickly heat.
With toxic erythema, a rash of reddish, plump spots dotted with small bubbles filled with exudate appears on the baby's skin (see photo).
They usually cover the folds of the arms or legs, the neck, buttocks, and chest.
With severe rashes, the lymph nodes increase. Treatment is prescribed by a doctor.
It has been noticed that if a nursing mother changes her diet, everything will return to normal in the child.
The nurse should exclude from her diet:
- honey, eggs;
- citrus;
- chocolate;
- some fruit.
Acne in newborns or infantile acne looks like single nodules or blisters filled with a yellowish-light fluid (see photo).
More often they appear:
- on the forehead;
- cheeks;
- the back of the head;
- neck.
These rashes are associated with problems with the skin follicles or sebaceous glands.
Pimples do not merge, do not cause itching, and are easy to distinguish from other diseases.
Enhanced hygiene care is required to avoid secondary infection.
With prickly heat, newborns develop a reddish or pink small rash in places that are most susceptible to sweating (see photo).
These are all folds, areas of the buttocks, legs, arms, neck.
Small bubbles of liquid usually appear if the baby is wrapped tightly or if the rules of hygiene and care are not followed.
Any, even the most insignificant, single, rashes on the skin of newborns should not be ignored.
Video about children's rash from Dr. Komarovsky:
Causes of rashes in an infant (photo and description)
During infancy from 1 month to 1 year, the skin of babies is susceptible to many pathologies.
This is due to the following reasons:
- allergies;
- violation of hygiene rules;
- the influence of maternal hormones;
- infections.
Hormonal rash - neonatal pustulosis
A small red rash in newborns may appear in the first days and weeks after birth. This is the so-called hormonal rash.
The child's hormonal system is rebuilt, begins to function independently and rejects the mother's hormones.
Remnants of maternal hormones pass through the skin as neonatal pustules. They look like papules with a white top.
Usually located on the upper half of the body:
- head;
- cheeks;
- back.
In the absence of proper skin care, the child may develop fungal infection.
Separately, a rash on the face and on the head (cephalic) in infants is distinguished. The reason for them will be the still imperfect work of the sebaceous glands or follicles and the simultaneous rapid multiplication on the child's face of lipophilic yeast-like fungi such as Malassezia. Sometimes they are detected by easy palpation.
The possibility of missing the signs and rash caused by meningitis is alarming.
Allergy Signs
Until the allergen is identified, the nurse herself must adjust her diet.
Exclude clearly allergenic foods:
- canned food;
- smoked meats.
If the red rash and peeling on the face and body of the baby do not go away, it is necessary to change the mixture, carefully study their composition.
Perform feed additives carefully, in stages. Start juices with droplets, gradually increasing every day.
It is necessary to revise the composition of creams, ointments, sprays, and powders used to treat baby's skin.
Deal with toys, find out what material they are made of, who is the manufacturer.
Purchase from natural fabrics:
- linens;
- towels;
- blanket;
- diapers;
- undershirts;
- sliders;
- booties.
We need to find out if there are any smokers nearby. Maintain a constant room temperature.
Once again, you need to check:
- What herbs are used for bathing.
- What creams and powders are used to toilet the baby's skin.
- Study the composition of creams, powders.
- Find out the composition of the fabric of bed linen, towels, diapers.
In order for the baby to not have prickly heat, diaper rash, you need to monitor and carry out regular skin care of the child.
Before choosing a powder, creams, oils for skin care, you need to get advice from your pediatrician.
It is advisable to select powders that contain dry herbal extracts: celandine, chamomile, string. Prepared with zinc oxide, panthenol, are considered medicinal.
Best powders:
- Baby Powder;
- Johnson's baby;
- Roma + Masha;
- Our mother;
- The world of childhood.
Effective baby ointments:
- Bepanten;
- Desitin;
- Pantestin;
- Zinc ointment;
- Calamine;
- La Cree.
All medicinal creams and ointments are used to eliminate pathological conditions caused by a skin rash in infants.
Their main actions are aimed at:
- relieve pain;
- remove inflammation;
- reduce hyperemia;
- reduce itching, burning;
- promote healing.
Herbal medicines are preferred.
La Cree cream contains herbal ingredients: avocado oil, olive oil, licorice extract, walnuts, string.
It can be used in care from the first days of life, not only for medicinal purposes.
The most effective emulsion is La-Cree. It nourishes the baby's dermis, restores the water-fat balance, strengthens the protective functions of the skin.
It must be remembered: any changes on the skin of an infant should not be ignored, "sound the alarm" even if a single pimple appears.
Even if the baby is doing well, a rash on the baby's body should always be a cause for concern. The main condition is not to try any home rubbing and not to give medicine to the child until a doctor has examined him. A rash can be a symptom of a variety of conditions, and only a specialist will determine what is happening.
So, first of all, let's define what cannot be done:
- give your child medications at your own discretion;
- allow the rash to comb;
- squeeze out "pimples" (pustules) or open bubbles;
- smear rashes with colored preparations - iodine, brilliant green, etc.: they complicate the diagnosis.
Rash of various origins
Sometimes a pink rash on a child's body occurs 10-20 hours after the temperature (which lasted up to 3 days). What could it be?
- Allergic reaction. In this case, the culprit is antipyretic drugs. In this case, the blood test is normal.
- Pseudo-rubella. She is roseola, three-day fever, sudden exanthema, "sixth" illness. "Sixth" - as the herpes virus type 6 acts. The rash does not change and goes away on its own in 3-6 days, then immunity is formed.
In these cases, it is best to see a doctor.
As a rule, mainly rashes on the skin of babies are caused by allergies, mild forms of infectious diseases, and insufficient hygiene.
There is a rash, no temperature: possible diseases
Among the problems in which a rash appears in children without fever, the following can be distinguished.
- Scabies. Rashes - not continuous, but in groups - spread over the abdomen, back, hands (including between the fingers) and wrists, appear on the buttocks, inner legs. Itching usually starts at night.
- Hives. Rapidly developing pink bumps all over the body, including mucous membranes. Duration - from several hours to three days. This is the body's response to medications (especially antibiotics), hypothermia, allergenic foods.
- Pyoderma. The general condition is normal. Redness will soon form purulent vesicles. Bursting, they turn into a grayish crust, which, after falling off, does not leave scars. Pyoderma requires compulsory treatment in order to avoid extensive suppuration and the development of severe conditions.
- Eczema. You can see a rash in a child on the face and neck, on the wrists, elbows and knees. Inflammation, swelling join, and the growth of weeping cracks is possible. Eczema often spreads to the eyelids, hands, feet. The child is nervous, often cries.
If the wounds are purulent, bleed, and the rashes continue to multiply, see a doctor immediately.
Prickly heat
If the baby has sensitive skin, even sweat causes a short-term appearance of a rash - it is called that: prickly heat. Pale red eruptions, sometimes with vesicles, accompanied by itching. They are located in the groin, under the knees, on the buttocks, on the shoulders and neck - that is, in the places where the sweat glands are most concentrated.
If sweating is reduced, the rash and itching will disappear accordingly. What do we have to do:
- bathe the child twice a day in warm water (no more than 34 ° C);
- keep the room cool;
- dress your baby in loose and light clothes, preferably made from natural fabrics;
- let the skin breathe (air baths).
Allergic reaction
Allergic rash in children appears due to immature immunity. It is often accompanied by lacrimation and runny nose. Allergies can be of two types.
- Food grade. It manifests itself on the limbs or on the abdomen a day after the use of the "wrong" product.
- Contact. After contact with aggressive media or material (chlorinated water, detergents, unsuitable clothing, metal - usually nickel).
The characteristic pale pink small rash on the abdomen of a child disappears quite quickly after the allergen is excluded. It is important to note what the reaction has appeared to, how strong its manifestations are and in what areas, how long does it last. It is better to introduce new products gradually, one by one - then you can accurately determine what exactly caused the allergy.
With a food allergic reaction, abdominal pain and indigestion may occur. But if the child has a rash and fever, lethargy, vomiting and other warning signs join them - most likely, this is an infectious disease.
And if it's an infection?
A rash in children can indeed be caused by a bacterial or viral infection. Many childhood infectious diseases occur with a rash, to which are added other striking symptoms. Here are some of these diseases. This chart can help you figure out exactly what is going on before you even see your doctor.
Table - The nature of the rash and possible diseases
| Type of rash | How does it appear | Rash marks | Associated symptoms | Disease |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Large, bright, spots, tubercles | Rash behind the ears of a child, near the hairline. Within 3 days, it descends all over the body to the feet. Spots here and there "merge" with each other | Small brown bruises, peeling | Dry barking cough; runny nose; heat; Red eyes; photophobia; slight itching | Measles |
| Small, in the form of pale pink specks | Initially on the face, and on the whole body - after 1-2 days | Not | Low temperature; joint pain; enlargement of the occipital lymph nodes | Rubella |
| Bright, small dots | Simultaneously on the face and body (the nasolabial triangle remains intact on the face), in the skin folds - the most intense | Peeling | Heat; acute sore throat; enlarged lymph nodes; bright tongue; shining eyes | Scarlet fever |
| Bubbles on the body of a child, which are filled with a transparent liquid, crusts | In the hair, then on the face, spreads through the body | Not (but scars may remain if scratched) | Temperature (up to 38 ° C); rarely - abdominal pain; headache | Chickenpox (chickenpox) |
| From small bruises to large hemorrhages | Rash on the trunk and legs | Ulcers, scars may remain | Sharply serious condition; fever; headache; vomit; confused mind | Meningococcal sepsis (meningitis) |
These are all childhood infections with rashes.
There are also fungal diseases that affect the skin, and they also cause rashes. These are the most common skin problems in children.
- Epidermophytosis. The disease occurs due to excessive sweating of the legs. Typical signs: swelling and redness between the fingers, severe itching. There is a rash in the child on the legs, the bubbles form erosion that spreads to the feet.
- Rubrophytia. The disease is also caused by the activity of the fungus. A small red rash in the child's arms and legs is characteristic, sometimes bubbles appear, turning into erosion. The skin is peeling. A very bright sign is a grayish-brown color of the nails, under the nails - keratosis (keratinization).
When do you need to urgently call a doctor?
Be alert and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms.
- Fever joins, especially sudden (temperature over 40 ° C).
- The rash on the child's body itches unbearably and spreads to the whole body.
- Vomiting and headache appear.
- Confusion of consciousness and speech.
- Hemorrhages with uneven edges, in the form of asterisks (like varicose veins), without itching.
- Swelling appears, breathing is difficult.
Before the arrival of the doctor, you cannot feed the baby, but drink plenty of fluids, and if the temperature rises above 38.5 ° C, give an antipyretic agent. It is good if the room is humid and cool. But the child needs to be dressed appropriately, preferably in something spacious, or covered with a soft blanket.
As you can see, skin rashes in children are not always a serious danger. But it is important to know the threatening symptoms and immediately seek professional help when they occur in order to avoid complications (and in the case of meningitis - and threats to children's life!). Only after a diagnostic examination, taking tests, an experienced doctor will be able to prescribe an adequate treatment. If necessary, he will involve other specialists in research.
You need to call the pediatrician at home so that when you go to the clinic, the baby's condition does not worsen (and in case of infection, so as not to infect others). Isolate your baby from pregnant women until you know for sure that he or she does not have rubella. Finally, do not give up vaccinations and adhere to the vaccination schedule. They, together with strengthening the immune system, will protect your child from many problems.
Update: October 2018
Any mother, seeing suspicious rashes on the skin of her baby, begins to look for their cause. Some almost always urgently call a doctor, having previously fed the child with unnecessary medications. Other parents try to ignore the rash, especially if the child is doing well. But both are doing wrong. You just need to navigate the main types of rashes in order to make the right decision.
What a rash might look like - basic elements
- - a limited area of skin of a changed color (red, white and others). It does not protrude above the skin and cannot be felt.
- - a tubercle up to 0.5 cm in diameter, which does not have a cavity inside. The element protrudes above the skin and can be felt.
- - a formation with a large area, raised above the skin and having a flattened shape. Large plaques with a clear skin pattern are called lichenification.
- Vesicles and bubbles- formations with liquid inside. Differ in size (a vesicle larger than 0.5 cm is called a bubble)
- - a limited cavity with pus inside
Diseases accompanied by a rash
Rash in newborns
Rashes of toxic erythema affects half of all full-term newborns. The main elements are white-yellow papules or pustules with a diameter of 1 to 2 mm, surrounded by a red rim. In some cases, only red spots appear, from a few to almost complete skin lesions (except for the palms and feet). The maximum rash appears on the 2nd day of life, then the rash gradually disappears. The exact causes of toxic erythema are unknown, the rash goes away on its own.
A condition that 20% of all babies go through by the age of three weeks. On the face, less often on the scalp and on the neck, a rash occurs in the form of inflamed papules and pustules. The rash is caused by the activation of the sebaceous glands by maternal hormones. Most often, neonatal acne does not require treatment; careful hygiene and moisturizing with emollients is necessary. Unlike juvenile acne, neonatal acne does not leave behind spots and scars, it lasts up to 6 months.
Frequent rash in newborns, especially in the warm season (see). It is associated with the difficult release of the contents of the sweat glands and increased skin moisture when wrapped. The head, face and diaper rash areas are considered typical places of occurrence. Bubbles, blemishes, and pustules are rarely inflamed, uncomfortable, and go away with good care.
A synonym for this disease is atopic eczema or. Every 10 children suffer from this ailment, but not all develop the typical triad of symptoms. The triad includes allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma and eczema itself. 
The first signs of the disease appear in the first year of life and more often the rash appears on the face, cheeks, extensor surfaces of the arms and legs. The child is worried about unbearable itching, which intensifies at night and with temperature, chemical effects on the skin. In the acute stage, the rash looks like red papules with scratches and fluid discharge.
In the subacute period, its thickening is characteristic, sometimes. This is due to the constant scratching of the affected areas.
Most children get sick with this ailment without consequences. 
Only with a hereditary predisposition can the disease become chronic with the addition of asthma and allergic rhinitis (see).
Allergic rash
With individual intolerance to drugs and food, the child may develop allergic rashes. They come in various shapes and sizes, and the rash can spread all over the body, on the arms, legs, back, or abdomen. The main distinguishing feature of an allergic rash is its intensification under the action of the allergen and disappearance after the cancellation of the latter. Usually, severe itching is the only unpleasant effect of such rashes. 
- Quincke's edema - in rare cases, a severe reaction of the body to an allergen may occur, most often it occurs to drugs or products (see details). In this case, the rash lasts for a long time, and edema forms on the body, up to the inability to breathe due to the overlap of the larynx. If you have a family history of allergies, avoid intolerable foods and medications.
- Urticaria - can also occur on foods, medicines and under the influence of temperature factors (,), sometimes the cause of the urticaria is never found (see details).
Very often, traces of insect bites terrify parents and make them look for infectious causes of such rashes. If any skin rashes appear, you need to analyze where and how long the child spent time. Perhaps the weekend in the village with my grandmother was accompanied by a trip to the forest and a massive attack of midges, so most often bite marks appear on open areas of the skin - in the form of a rash on the arms, legs, face, and neck.
Typical bite marks are caused by the following processes:
- reaction to toxins
- mechanical injury to the skin
- introducing infection into the wound when scratching
- sometimes infectious diseases transmitted through bites
Bite symptoms:
| Mosquitoes | Bedbugs |
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| Bees and wasps | Scabies mites |
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A rash in a child in which you need to call a doctor immediately
- Is accompanied by a fever above 40 degrees
- Covers the whole body, causing unbearable itching
- Combines with vomiting, headache, and confusion
- Has the appearance of stellate hemorrhages
- Is accompanied by swelling and shortness of breath
What can not be done with a rash in a child
- Squeeze out pustules
- Burst bubbles
- Allow rash to comb
- Lubricate with preparations with a bright color (so as not to complicate the diagnosis)
A rash on the body of a child is an important symptom of many diseases. Some of them do not even require treatment and go away on their own, and some threaten the health and life of a little person. Therefore, for any suspicious symptoms, you need to consult a doctor and not self-medicate.
Rash caused by infection
The most common cause of a child's body rash is a viral or bacterial infection. In turn, 6 main diseases are distinguished among them.
The disease is caused by parvovirus B19, which is common in all countries of the world. The virus is transmitted by airborne droplets, contact transmission is possible in close children's groups. Symptoms of infectious erythema: 
The rash forms on the extensor surfaces; the hands and feet are usually not affected. The fading of the spots occurs gradually, within 1-3 weeks. The rash is usually an immune post-infectious complication, so children with erythema patches are not contagious and do not need isolation.
Herpes simplex virus type 6 causes a typical childhood illness - sudden exanthema (roseola). The peak incidence occurs at the age of 10 months to 2 years, and it is rarely possible to identify contacts with sick children. Transmission usually occurs from adults by airborne droplets. Symptoms:
Roseola is a very specific disease, but it often goes unrecognized by pediatricians. Since teeth are actively teething at the age of 1 year, the fever is attributed to this condition. It must be remembered that teething never causes a temperature higher than 38 degrees. There is always another reason in this heat!
Chicken pox
Chickenpox (chickenpox) is a primary infection with the varicella zoster virus, which is similar in structure to the herpes simplex virus. Most children become infected with it before the age of 15. The transmission of the disease occurs by air or by contact (a virus is present in the discharge from the rash). Symptoms:
The varicella-zoster virus in most children who have been ill goes into a latent form, firmly entrenched in the nerve cells. Subsequently, a second wave of the disease may occur in the form (Fig. 2.), when bubbles form along the nerve trunk, more often on the lower back.
Complications of the disease are rare, mainly in debilitated children with primary immunodeficiency and AIDS. With congenital chickenpox, there is a possibility of disability and death of the newborn. In 2015, in Russia, the chickenpox vaccine should be included in the national immunization schedule.
Meningococcal infection
Meningococcus is a bacterium that normally occurs in the nasopharynx in 5-10% of people without causing serious problems. But under certain conditions, this microbe can cause life-threatening conditions, especially in young children. Meningococcus is transmitted by air, settling in the nasal cavity. With viral infections or a decrease in the quality of life, the carrier can turn into an active disease. If meningococci are found in the blood or cerebrospinal fluid, urgent antibiotic treatment is required in the intensive care unit. 
After entering the bloodstream, the bacterium can cause:
- sepsis (blood poisoning)
- meningitis
- combination of these states
Sepsis - the disease begins with a rise in temperature up to 41 degrees, indomitable vomiting. During the first day, against the background of pale gray skin, a characteristic petechial rash appears (small bruises that grow and acquire a stellate shape).
The rash is located on the limbs, trunk, can rise above the skin, often ulcerate and form scars. At the same time, purulent foci may appear in organs (heart, pericardium, pleural cavity). In young children, sepsis often flares up with shock and death.
Meningitis is a more common manifestation of infection. Patients complain of photophobia, headache, impaired consciousness, tension in the occipital muscles. With isolated meningitis, there is no characteristic rash.
Measles
- a previously widespread viral disease, which now occurs in the form of short outbreaks in certain regions. In recent years, the virus has raised its head again due to massive anti-vaccine campaigning. Most people are highly susceptible to the measles virus, so if one child falls ill in a children's team, then 90% of the remaining unvaccinated children are at risk of becoming infected.
The disease proceeds in three stages:
- Incubation (hidden), which lasts 10-12 days. By the 9th day, the sick child is contagious.
- Prodromal (general malaise), lasting 3-5 days. It begins acutely, proceeds with an increase in temperature, dry cough, runny nose, redness of the eyes. Filatov-Koplik spots appear on the mucous membrane of the cheeks on day 2: whitish-gray dots with a red rim, disappearing within 12-18 hours.
- The period of rashes. In parallel with an increase in temperature to 40 degrees, maculopapular dots appear behind the ears and along the hairline. During the day, the rash covers the face, descends to the upper chest. After 2-3 days, it reaches the feet, and turns pale on the face. Such a phased rash (1 day - face, 2 day - trunk, 3 day - limbs) is typical for measles. All this is accompanied by mild itching, sometimes small bruises appear at the site of the rash. After the spots disappear, peeling and a brownish mark may remain, which disappears within 7-10 days.
Complications (usually occur in unvaccinated children):
- otitis media
- pneumonia
- encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)
The diagnosis is usually made on the basis of characteristic symptoms, sometimes blood is taken to determine immunoglobulins. Treatment directly against the virus has not been developed, so you just need to alleviate the child's condition with antipyretic drugs. There is evidence that vitamin A supplementation in children with measles can significantly alleviate the infection. Vaccination of children can reduce the incidence of illness and the risk of serious complications. It must be remembered that 6-10 days after the administration of the vaccine, alleviated symptoms of the disease (low temperature, small rash on the child's body) may appear, which pass quickly and do not pose a health hazard.
Rubella
Acute viral infection, which is sick mainly for 5-15 years. Rubella symptoms:
- The latent period is 2 to 3 weeks. At this stage, there are no manifestations, but the child may already be contagious.
- Prodromal period. There is a slight malaise, a low rise in temperature, very often this stage goes unnoticed. The occipital and posterior cervical lymph nodes are noticeably enlarged.
- The period of rashes. A pale pink rash appears on the face, spreads quickly downward, and disappears just as quickly, usually after 3 days. May be accompanied by mild itching. Peeling usually does not remain.
Rubella often occurs without a rash at all, making it difficult to distinguish it from other infections. The virus is dangerous mainly for expectant mothers. When infected before 11 weeks of gestation, most children have congenital malformations. After 16 weeks, the risk of anomalies is small, but there is a possibility of congenital rubella with damage to the brain, skin, eyes, Therefore, all women, when planning a pregnancy, need to know the level of rubella antibodies in order to vaccinate them if they are absent.
Scarlet fever
- a disease caused by group A streptococci. This means that the source of infection is not only patients or carriers of scarlet fever, but also people with any pathology caused by these bacteria (angina, for example). Scarlet fever is transmitted by airborne droplets. Symptoms:
- The latent period is 2-7 days.
- The prodromal period begins with a rise in temperature, malaise.
- Already for 1-2 days of illness, a rash appears that does not affect the nasolabial triangle. The appearance of a child with scarlet fever is characteristic: shiny eyes, flaming cheeks, pale nasolabial triangle. On the body, the rash is more intense in the folds. After 3-7 days, all rashes disappear, leaving behind peeling. Another feature of the disease is the "crimson" tongue - bright, with pronounced papillae.
Infectious mononucleosis
The Epstein-Barr virus, which causes, belongs to a large group of herpes viruses. The disease more often affects children and young people, often without a rash and other characteristic symptoms. The degree of infectiousness of patients with mononucleosis is low, therefore, outbreaks are not found in children's groups. Symptoms:
- The main symptom of the disease is an increase in lymph nodes, especially in the posterior cervical, while the liver and spleen are enlarged.
- From the 3rd day of illness, the appearance of tonsillitis with a white coating on the tonsils, a rise in temperature is possible.
- On the 5-6th day, a rash of various shapes and sizes, which disappears without a trace, rarely occurs. If a patient with mononucleosis was prescribed ampicillin, then the likelihood of a rash increases.
- A characteristic sign will appear in the blood test: atypical mononuclear cells, in addition, antibodies to the Epstein-Barr virus can be detected.
Differential diagnosis of an infectious rash
| Hidden period | Symptoms | Rash | The period of infectiousness and vaccination | |||
| View | Time and order of appearance | Footprints | ||||
| Measles | 10-12days |
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Large maculopapular, bright, can merge | After 3-5 days of illness - behind the ears, along the hair. Then it goes down to the feet (in three days) | Bruising and peeling | 4 days before the first rashes and up to 5 days after they disappear. Vaccination - at 1 year old, 6 years old |
| Rubella | 2-3 weeks |
|
Small spotted, pale pink | On the first day of illness on the face, after 24-48 hours - all over the body, disappears after 3 days. | Disappears without a trace | Infection during the period of rashes, a few days before and after them. Vaccination -12 months, 6 years |
| Scarlet fever | 2-7 days |
|
Small-dot (1-2 mm), bright | Simultaneous rash, intense rash in the folds of the body. Pale nasolabial triangle. | Leaves peeling | infectiousness 10 days from the moment of onset of symptoms, with streptococcus carriage - constant infectiousness |
| Infectious mononucleosis | Unknown |
|
Diverse in shape and size, it does not always occur | On the 5-6th day of illness, sometimes later. More intense on the face, but also present on the trunk | Disappears without a trace | The virus has a low infectivity, is transmitted more often when using shared utensils and kissing |
| Infectious erythema | 4-28 days |
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Red spots | Red spots from the face extend to the entire body, especially to the extensor surfaces. Before disappearing, they take the form of a ring with a white center. | Disappear for a long time, may reappear within 3 weeks under unfavorable conditions | Children are usually not contagious after the rash appears. |
| 5-15 days |
|
Fine spotted | Spots appear after the temperature on the body has returned to normal. | Disappear within a few hours or days without a trace | Infection more often occurs from adults - carriers of the herpes virus type 6 | |
| Chicken pox | 10-21 days |
|
Spots, papules, fluid blisters and crusts. | The beginning - on the scalp, face, trunk. Then it spreads to the whole body. Different elements of the rash are present at the same time. | there are no traces, but if an infection is introduced when scratching - scars may remain |
48 hours before the onset of the rash and before the formation of crusts on all elements (up to 2 weeks) It is planned to include in the vaccination calendar in 2015. |
| Meningococcal sepsis | - |
|
From small bruises to extensive hemorrhages | More often - the lower limbs and trunk. | Extensive hemorrhages can develop into ulcers and scars. | Throughout the illness |
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