Rashes are common in the pediatric population. Most are benign and self-limited. However, there are several rashes that require rapid recognition and intervention. This chapter discusses Kawasaki disease, omphalitis, staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome, Stevens–Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis, necrotizing fasciitis, meningococcemia, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Kawasaki disease is a self-limited vasculitis, with predisposition to medium-sized arteries, particularly the coronary arteries. Omphalitis is an infection of the umbilical stump that carries significant morbidity and potential mortality for neonates. Staphylococcal scaled skin syndrome is an exotoxin-mediated superficial skin blistering disease caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Stevens–Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis are severe mucocutaneous reactions characterized by extensive epidermal necrosis and detachment. Necrotizing fasciitis is a life-threatening progressive infection resulting in significant tissue destruction requiring surgical intervention. Neisseria meningiditis is the leading cause of bacterial meningitis in children and young adults. Rocky Mountain spotted fever is one of the most clinically important diseases spread by a tick bite. Key features of presentation as well as atypical presentations are highlighted in this chapter, with emphasis on diagnostic and management pearls.
Kawasaki disease following Rocky Mountain spotted fever: a case report
