Clinical features of viral exanthems

Patients with viral exanthems commonly present to the general practitioner. Although it can be challenging to make a specific diagnosis on the basis of the clinical presentation, most viral exanthems can be distinguished initially on the basis of age, distribution and morphology of the rash without requiring investigations.

The aim of this article is to provide an initial guide to the clinical diagnosis of viral exanthems based on age, distribution and morphology of the rash.

Although most viral exanthems can present at any age, it may be helpful to initially consider certain exanthems depending on the age of the patient. Following consideration of differential diagnoses according to age groups, it is proposed that most exanthems can be distinguished by the distribution and morphology of the rash. Other diagnostic considerations include associated symptoms and diagnostic tests if applicable.