Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: June 10, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Petechial Rash with Fever

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Viral Infection (e.g., influenza, enterovirus, or adenovirus): These infections are common and can cause a petechial rash along with fever, especially in children. The rash is often accompanied by other symptoms such as cough, sore throat, and body aches.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Bacterial Sepsis: Certain bacterial infections, like streptococcal or staphylococcal sepsis, can cause a petechial rash due to the dissemination of bacteria in the bloodstream. Fever is a hallmark of sepsis.
  • Meningococcemia: This condition, caused by Neisseria meningitidis, can present with a petechial or purpuric rash and fever. It's a serious infection that requires prompt treatment.
  • Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP): Although ITP primarily causes purpura, it can sometimes present with petechiae. Fever may be present, especially if there's an underlying infection contributing to the thrombocytopenia.
  • Infectious Mononucleosis: Caused by Epstein-Barr virus, this condition can lead to a rash, which may include petechiae, especially if the patient is taking ampicillin.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Meningitis: While not all cases of meningitis present with a rash, some bacterial forms (like meningococcemia) can. Missing this diagnosis can be fatal.
  • Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation (DIC): This condition can cause petechiae among other symptoms and is often associated with severe infections or other critical illnesses. It requires immediate attention.
  • Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP): A rare disorder characterized by thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, renal failure, and neurological symptoms. Petechiae can be part of the presentation.
  • Severe Dengue Fever: In its severe form, dengue fever can cause a petechial rash, significant bleeding, and low platelet count, along with high fever.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Leptospirosis: A zoonotic infection that can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fever and rash. Petechiae are less common but can occur.
  • Rickettsial Infections (e.g., Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever): These infections can cause fever, headache, and a characteristic rash, which may include petechiae in some cases.
  • Henoch-Schönlein Purpura (HSP): Although HSP is more commonly associated with purpura, it can occasionally present with petechiae. It's characterized by the deposition of IgA immune complexes and typically affects children.
  • Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome with associated bleeding disorder: Certain types of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome can increase the risk of bleeding and may present with easy bruising or petechiae, though this would be more chronic than acute.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.