Unilateral laterothoracic exanthem of childhood in Child
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Synopsis
The clinical presentation includes a mildly pruritic eczematous or morbilliform rash that typically presents in a unilateral, localized distribution on the trunk and/or extremities. The eruption can spread to involve the contralateral side in 65%-70% cases over 2-4 weeks, but the rash usually remains more prominent on the initial affected side. The eruption can develop a more eczematous quality before resolving with fine, superficial desquamation. Associated symptoms include fever and pruritus. The mean time for resolution is 5 weeks, and recurrence is unusual.
ULE affects children who are 2-3 years of age (although it has been described in children 8 months to 10 years of age) with a 2:1 female-to-male predominance. It is usually seen in the winter and spring seasons. There may be a preceding history of fever or other symptoms of upper respiratory or gastrointestinal illness.
There are reports of family members concomitantly affected with a similar rash, which is suggestive of an infectious etiology. However, a study investigating a large panel of bacterial and viral agents in patients with ULE was unable to identify a single etiologic agent.
There is no association between ULE and immunocompromised states or malignancy. There is one reported case of ULE in a child with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The exanthem followed the typical clinical course, although it lasted for 4 months, and did not require either delay or cessation of oncologic therapy.
Codes
ICD10CM:B09 – Unspecified viral infection characterized by skin and mucous membrane lesions
SNOMEDCT:
49882001 – Viral exanthem
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
- Acute allergic contact dermatitis – Pruritic papules and vesicles superimposed upon an erythematous base a few days to weeks after skin contact with an allergen, contingent upon whether area was previously exposed to allergen. The distribution may be linear or otherwise geometric but varies with the area of exposure.
- Nonspecific viral exanthem – Similar to ULE in history and physical exam, and may be on the same spectrum as ULE. The asymmetry of ULE is the distinguishing feature.
- Gianotti-Crosti syndrome – More diffuse or edematous papular exanthem occurs more prominently over the face, buttocks, and extensor surfaces of the extremities following a viral infection, and is not limited to one side.
- Atopic dermatitis – Eczematous plaques and associated pruritus may mimic ULE, but atopic dermatitis should be more symmetric in distribution and more chronic in clinical course.
- Seborrheic dermatitis – Dry to greasy scale and erythematous patches in flexural regions that are less likely to be unilateral in distribution.
- Tinea corporis – Annular or oval erythematous plaques with central clearing and scaly border in children who are in frequent contact with domestic animals and/or play contact sports.
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Last Reviewed:03/08/2017
Last Updated:03/09/2017
Last Updated:03/09/2017
Patient Information for Unilateral laterothoracic exanthem of childhood in Child
Overview
Asymmetric periflexural exanthem of childhood, also called unilateral laterothoracic exanthema, begins as a one-sided rash in young children or toddlers, but rarely in adults. The rash most commonly appears near the armpits, chest, back, groin, or buttocks, and may be associated with fever, swollen lymph nodes, diarrhea, rhinitis, and itch. The eruption may follow a recent respiratory or gastrointestinal illness. This is a harmless rash that will go away on its own without risk for long-term skin changes or scarring.Who’s At Risk
Toddlers and young children are most likely to present with this rash after a mild illness. It is more common in spring and winter. Children with light skin types are more likely to get this rash.Signs & Symptoms
Look for a mainly one-sided skin rash in and around the armpits, chest, back, and groin area. The rash is accompanied by fever in 40% of patients. It usually follows a respiratory or gastrointestinal illness, but not always.Self-Care Guidelines
Monitor your child's fever.Antihistamines, hydrocortisone, or moisturizers may provide some relief from itching and inflammation.
When to Seek Medical Care
If fever spikes or other symptoms present, you should contact your pediatrician. It is not uncommon for symptoms to last several weeks to 2 months.Treatments
If fever spikes or other symptoms present, you should contact your pediatrician. It is not uncommon for symptoms to last several weeks to 2 months.Unilateral laterothoracic exanthem of childhood in Child