Acute childhood exanthems

Exanthems are rashes that in childhood are most commonly caused by viruses. This article describes the common exanthems, including measles, rubella, varicella, erythema infectiosum, papular-purpuric gloves and socks syndrome, roseola infantum, hand, foot and mouth disease, Gianotti-Crosti syndrome, unilateral laterothoracic exanthem and pityriasis rosea. It outlines their transmission, infectivity, prodrome, clinical presentation, complications and treatment. Although it is often difficult to identify the specific virus, polymerase chain reaction analysis has improved diagnostic accuracy, which is particularly important in immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women. Alternative diagnoses include bacterial and non-infectious causes.