Viral Exanthem

Last reviewed by Dr. Raj MD on January 12th, 2022.

What is Viral Exanthem?

Generally speaking it is a term that is used in reference to a rash that is associated with a virus and is also referred to as a non-specific viral rash. It can also refer to a skin irruption. This medical condition is most common in children and young adults because they are not immune yet to a variety of common viral infections. Depending on what the virus is it can be contagious.

Viral Exanthem Symptoms

The symptoms of viral exanthem will depend on what virus is causing this condition. Some of the various symptoms a person may have can include:

Primarily on the legs, arms, and trunk there is a widespread rash of pink to red bumps or spots.
Rash may be itchy
Having a fever
Feeling fatigued
Have a headache
Loss of appetite
Aches and pain
Feeling irritable
Having a strawberry tongue
Having a flushed face
Nausea and vomiting.
Redness and/or soreness in the throat
Runny nose
Cough
Congestion

If it is a severe rash there could be large welts that ulcerate and ooze fluids, exposing the underlying tissue and may itch.

Causes

The main cause is a virus of some type. If an adult has viral exanthem the cause could be a reaction to a drug. It can also be caused by toxins that were released by the virus or an immune overreaction.

Some causes of viral exanthem can include:

Measles
Chickenpox
Roseola
Fifth disease
Rubella
Respiratory viruses
Stomach viruses
Scarlet fever
Staph infection
Smallpox which is now extinct in the wild

Treatment

The treatment that is used will depend on what the virus is that is causing viral exanthem but usually treatment is not necessary as it will go away naturally in time which in most cases is just over ten days, If it is a severe case it could take up to fourteen days. Some of the treatments may include:

Getting plenty of rest.
Drinking a lot of liquids to keep your body hydrated.
Moisturizers for your skin to help with the dryness of your skin.
Using oral antihistamines if you are itching.
For pain and fever take over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as Tylenol or Motrin.
Washing your skin gently using mild soap a couple of times a day.
Taking frequent baths or showers in water that is lukewarm.
Wearing clothing that is loose so it does not irritate your skin.

If you are not sure which virus has caused viral exanthem you should visit your physician for them to diagnosis the virus. Some of the viruses that are causing viral exanthem may require aggressive treatment because the virus may present a health risk. Some of these health risks may include having a high fever that could cause damage to the brain or it may lead to a coma and maybe even death if not treated correctly.

If the virus is painful or itchy the physician may treat it with topical ointments or steroids. This type of treatment will help make you feel better and reduce inflammation. To help with itching a person can also apply anti-itch cream or calamine lotion. You can also take a bath in oatmeal or baking soda to help reduce irritation and soften your skin. If the rash is itchy you should try to keep from scratching because it could cause a secondary infection. To help prevent scratching you can wear gloves or long sleeves.

If any of these occur you need to see your physician immediately for treatment or go to your nearest emergency room.

If you have a temperature more than one a day of over one hundred one degrees.
Have a stiff neck, severe headache, become unconscious, have seizures, or confusion.
Severe abdominal pain, vomiting and/or diarrhea.
Sputum or severe cough with blood or pus.
Painful and swollen joints, redness, swelling, or spots on the soles or palms, or blisters.
Red tongue, eyes, or mouth.
Having a rash that is bright red and with finger pressure it does not fade.