Full body rash on a 4 year old - UPDATE - It's Mono

[GardenStream]

Last night my 4 year old told me that his stomach and feet were itchy. I pulled up his shirt and saw that he has a mottled pink rash all over him. Nothing is raised or swollen looking. He did have a slight fever yesterday 100 but he has acted completely normal. I gave him a bath last night, put him in pajamas and sent him to bed. The rash is still there this morning.

My first thought was an allergy, but I haven't changed any soap or laundry detergent and we haven't had any new or different foods either.

Anybody have any other ideas about what could be causing this?

ETA: I'm beginning to think it's viral.... maybe Fifth's disease???
Edited by GardenStream - 3/17/11 at 12:53pm

[Marnica]

doubtful that it is allergies if there is fever present.

many viruses can be accompanied by a rash. My almost 3 yo has had several viral rashes.

It doesn't sound like fifth's disease. The rash usually appears once the viral stage is over (ie fever is gone etc) Ot also usually starts on the face hence the slapped cheek reference.

[GardenStream]

Originally Posted by Marnica 

doubtful that it is allergies if there is fever present.

many viruses can be accompanied by a rash. My almost 3 yo has had several viral rashes.

It doesn't sound like fifth's disease. The rash usually appears once the viral stage is over (ie fever is gone etc) Ot also usually starts on the face hence the slapped cheek reference.

Thanks for replying and sharing some insight.

I'm in agreement that it's not fifth's and I don't believe it's roseola either. I'm now thinking it's just a stray virus he got somewhere and the rash is another sign that his body if fighting it. My kids very rarely get sick so this one really threw me.

[GardenStream]

UPDATE

He started complaining today of a sore throat and I was diagnosed with strep yesterday, so I did take him in to the doctor. It turns out that DS has mono.

[Marnica]

Originally Posted by GardenStream 

UPDATE

He started complaining today of a sore throat and I was diagnosed with strep yesterday, so I did take him in to the doctor. It turns out that DS has mono.

aww poor baby. Well not much you can do about mono - just rest and TLC. Hope he feels better soon!