Differential Diagnosis for Maculopapular Rash on Face with Fever
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Viral exanthem (e.g., measles, rubella, roseola): This is a common cause of maculopapular rash with fever, especially in children. The rash typically starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Infectious mononucleosis: Caused by Epstein-Barr virus, this condition can present with a maculopapular rash, fever, and lymphadenopathy.
- Scarlet fever: Although the rash is typically more diffuse and sandpapery, it can start on the face and be accompanied by fever and other symptoms.
- Kawasaki disease: An acute febrile illness that can cause a maculopapular rash, fever, and other systemic symptoms, mainly in children.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Meningococcemia: A life-threatening infection that can cause a petechial or maculopapular rash, fever, and other severe symptoms.
- Rocky Mountain spotted fever: A tick-borne illness that can present with a maculopapular rash, fever, and other systemic symptoms, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.
- Toxic shock syndrome: A severe condition caused by bacterial toxins, which can cause a maculopapular rash, fever, and other life-threatening symptoms.
- Rare diagnoses
- Secondary syphilis: Can cause a maculopapular rash on the face, trunk, and extremities, accompanied by fever and other symptoms.
- Leptospirosis: A zoonotic infection that can cause a maculopapular rash, fever, and other systemic symptoms, mainly in people who work with animals or are exposed to contaminated water.
- Erythema infectiosum (Fifth disease): Although typically causing a "slapped-cheek" appearance, it can also present with a maculopapular rash on the face and other parts of the body, accompanied by fever.