Treatment Options For A Maculopapular Rash
Underlying Infection Treatment
While viral infections cause most rashes, bacterial infections can also produce this symptom. Some of the most common infections that lead to the development of maculopapular rashes are measles, scarlet fever, hepatitis B and C, the Zika virus, and an infection that affects the hands, mouth, and feet. Vaccines are available to prevent measles and hepatitis B, and hepatitis C can be treated with oral medications. Treatment for scarlet fever typically consists of antibiotics taken over a period of ten days. An infection of the hands, mouth, and feet is a common childhood illness that can cause a rash along with a fever, sore throat, loss of appetite, mouth sores, and irritability. The rash associated with this condition may occur on the buttocks, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet. It typically occurs without itching, but blisters may be present. The illness often resolves on its own in ten days. If treatment is needed, it typically includes an oral anesthetic gel to relieve pain from mouth sores, and over-the-counter pain relievers are often recommended to relieve discomfort.
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Topical Steroid Cream Application
Topical steroid cream application reduces inflammation and can ease itching. While low-dose hydrocortisone creams and other steroid creams are available over the counter and can reduce itching, it is still important for patients who have a maculopapular rash to be evaluated by a physician to rule out an allergic reaction or serious illness. Steroid creams are available by prescription and are classified according to their potency. Treatment with topical steroid creams can cause side effects including thinning of the skin, localized hair thickening in the region of application, enlarged blood vessels, and easy bruising. Patients may also develop stretch marks in the groin or armpits if the creams are used on these areas.
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