ABORDAGEM DIAGNÓSTICO DAS DOENÇAS EXANTEMÁTICAS DA INFÂNCIA

Abstract

Childhood involvement due to exanthematous pathologies is one of the most common conditions in pediatric practice, frequently posing diagnostic challenges. Several conditions can lead to rash, with infectious causes being responsible for more than 70% of episodes. Most exanthemas are self-limited, however the correct identification of the etiology has clinical relevance due to the severity and deterioration of the prognosis in case of delay in diagnosis in certain cases, and for public health, considering the potential for contagion of infectious causes. The clinical nonspecificity of exanthematous diseases requires a systematic approach for early diagnosis that includes the collection of a complete anamnesis and a broad and careful physical examination. These are the main instruments for diagnostic elucidation, also allowing guidance for laboratory diagnostic conduct. This study aims to expose the main clinical-epidemiological characteristics of exanthemas, emphasizing that anamnesis and physical examination are the main tools to aid in the differential diagnosis and consequent management of patients affected by exanthematous disease in childhood.