Inquiry Regarding Rash on Child's Leg
Dear Doctors, I would like your insight on a rash affecting my son’s leg. He is a 22-month-old boy weighing around 25 pounds and is generally of average height. Currently, he is not on any medication apart from Lotrimin, which he used for a short duration of a few days. There are some fluid-filled blisters present. The first image reflects the rash as it appeared today, while the second image captures it from Thursday. The rash is localized to his leg and knee area. Initially, I suspected it might be fungal and applied Lotrimin, but my certainty regarding that diagnosis has diminished. We have recently dealt with a case of Hand Foot Mouth disease, but he has been completely recovered for a few weeks now. I consulted his pediatrician the same day the rash emerged, but they were unable to provide a definitive explanation, suggesting it likely isn’t related to HFM or molluscum contagiosum. They recommended that I continue with Lotrimin if I wished, though I am beginning to doubt its efficacy. There are no accompanying fevers, and it doesn’t seem to cause him any discomfort. Additionally, there haven’t been any recent changes in detergents or foods introduced to his diet. I first noticed the rash a few hours into the morning. What do you think could be causing this?
Answers (1)
8/25/2025, 3:11:38 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're understandably concerned about your son's rash, especially considering his recent health history. Given the details you've provided, it's essential to explore the potential causes of the rash, which could be due to several factors. Here’s a structured breakdown:
Main Points:
- The rash with fluid-filled blisters on your son’s leg could result from various conditions, and guidance can help you decide on next steps.
- Since he is not experiencing discomfort or fever, continued monitoring and some changes in approach may be beneficial.
Explanation:
Fluid-filled blisters can be associated with different conditions, including viral infections, allergic reactions, or localized skin issues like eczema or contact dermatitis. Since you mentioned a recent case of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD), while the pediatrician suggested it might not be related, it can sometimes appear in rashes with blistering.
The fact that the rash doesn't cause discomfort or fever is reassuring, but since you've noticed it change over time, it's good to keep a close eye on it.
Lotrimin (an antifungal) may not be effective if the rash is not fungal in nature, which seems possible since the pediatrician wasn’t sure about the diagnosis. In such cases, a more generalized approach may help.
Next Steps:
-
Stop using Lotrimin: If there’s little improvement after a few days and since the pediatrician expressed uncertainty about the diagnosis, it's better to discontinue it.
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Gentle skincare: Keep the affected area clean and dry. Use mild soap and avoid any potential irritants, including harsh detergents or heavy creams.
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Monitor changes: Over the next few days, observe the rash closely for any changes in size, color, or if it spreads. Take note of any new symptoms, such as discomfort or itching.
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Hydration: Make sure your son is well-hydrated and consider keeping the area moisturized if it seems dry.
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Follow-up with a pediatric dermatologist: Since the rash is not improving and is concerning, reaching out to a specialist in skin conditions can provide further clarity and appropriate care strategies.
If you notice any significant changes in his symptoms, such as increased irritation, fever, or spreading of the rash, please seek medical attention promptly. It’s natural to worry, but keeping an eye on these changes and taking proactive steps can often lead to a resolution. Don't hesitate to ask for ongoing guidance or support through this process!
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