What Causes Red Rashs On Trunk And Arms?

Posted on Thu, 17 Apr 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 18 Apr 2014 Answered on

Mon, 5 May 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi, my 13 year old daughter has a red rash on her trunk and arms ( not so much on her back). She says it doesn't itch that much only slightly. She has had it for a couple of days. She is not running a fever. The bumps are small pinpoint bumps, no pustules.

Answered by Dr. Luchuo Engelbert Bain (7 hours later)

Brief Answer: Allergy, monitor temperature, careful review Detailed Answer: Hi and thanks for the query, It is important to note the fact that the child is not running a fever. In my opinion, the fact that the child has itches, though mild in intensity is suggestive of an allergic reaction. The image presented shows reddish eruptions suggestive of an inflammatory reaction. This allergy could be due to an insect, drug if she has taken any, either orally or on the skin, recent change of the bathing soap or oil, and some kind of dress. All of these options , carefully analyzing where she has visited or played lately should be carefully monitored. Her temperature needs to be carefully followed up. In case it increases, this could be an indication of an infectious process, probably viral. Treatment would generally involve use of anti septic solutions and antihistaminic drugs to reduce itches. Running nose or rhinorrhea if present would also be suggestive of an infectious process. Thanks and kind regards as I wish you the best of health. Feel free asking follow up questions in case you have any specific concerns. Dr Bain

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T