Rash with signs of infection in children

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Rash with signs of infection in children

Generally, a skin infection is more likely to develop after an injury, such as a cut or scrape. However, a very minor skin injury may go unnoticed and may become infected. In cases like this, what looks like a rash may actually be a skin infection.

Any rash breaks down the skin barrier and makes it more susceptible to infection, so rashes may also become infected. Signs of infection may include:

• Increased pain, swelling, redness, or warmth around the affected area.
• Red streaks extending from the affected area.
• Drainage of pus from the area.
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpit, or groin.
• Fever of or higher, or chills with no other known cause.

Chickenpox sores usually heal with the use of home treatment. It is important to watch for signs of infection, because occasionally a chickenpox sore will become infected and require a visit to a health professional.

Minor impetigo sores may heal with the use of home treatment. Occasionally the impetigo will spread and require a visit to a health professional.

Prompt treatment of a skin infection can prevent the infection from spreading to surrounding tissues or throughout the body.

Credits

Last updated:	August 01, 2008
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Alexander H. Murray, MD, FRCPC - Dermatology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer