From the Research
Monkeypox (now officially called mpox) and npox refer to the same disease, and therefore, there is no difference between monkeypox rash and npox rash because they are simply different names for the identical condition. The World Health Organization officially renamed monkeypox as "mpox" in November 2022 to reduce stigma associated with the original name, but the clinical presentation remains exactly the same 1. The characteristic rash typically begins as flat red spots that evolve into raised bumps, then fluid-filled vesicles, pustules, and finally scabs before healing. These lesions can appear anywhere on the body including face, hands, feet, genitals, and inside the mouth. The rash is often accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue. If you suspect you have mpox, isolate immediately and contact a healthcare provider for testing and treatment options.
Key Features of Mpox Rash
- Begins as flat red spots
- Evolves into raised bumps, then fluid-filled vesicles, pustules, and finally scabs before healing
- Can appear anywhere on the body, including face, hands, feet, genitals, and inside the mouth
- Often accompanied by fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue
According to a recent review, the clinical diagnosis of monkeypox infection is commonly made based on the occurrence pattern of its skin rash, which can be distinguished from other rash-causing disorders such as varicella and smallpox by its distinctive symptoms 2. Another study highlights the importance of recognizing alternative differential diagnoses, as the initial clinical manifestation of monkeypox can resemble that of the common cold or seasonal flu 3.
Differential Diagnosis
- Varicella
- Smallpox
- Molluscum contagiosum
- Syphilis
- Measles
- Rickettsialpox
- Scabies
It is essential to note that mpox is usually a self-limited disease and can resolve within a few weeks in most cases, but it may cause severe complications in special populations such as immunocompromised individuals 4. If you suspect you have mpox, it is crucial to isolate immediately and contact a healthcare provider for testing and treatment options. A recent review discusses the epidemiology, clinical presentation, and laboratory testing of mpox, emphasizing the need for clinicians and laboratorians to quickly adapt to this new public health emergency 5.