Toxic erythema (Q92984)

Toxic erythema, also known as an exanthematous reaction, is a descriptive term for an acute widespread usually symmetrical erythematous rash such as may be triggered both by drugs and by infections but which also may be the prodrome of a wide variety of dermatoses. The precise cause can often not be identified. It is characterised by erythema without significant surface changes such as scale, exudation or ulceration. The erythema may be morbilliform (like measles), urticated (resembling urticaria but not migratory) or scarlatiniform (confluent and macular resembling scarlet fever). A search should always be made for an underlying trigger.