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My 2 year old has a rash around his mouth. It began as ...

Sent to Health Experts April 20, 2006 8:25 a.m.

My 2 year old has a rash around his mouth. It began as what looked like a fever blister (cold sore) on the top of his lip. It has now spread to other areas around his mouth and even on his chin. It is no longer confined only to the lips. The nurse at daycare said it didn't look like empitigo (spelling). What else could it be? Out pediatrician cannot see us until late Friday afternoon.

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Male , Age: 2

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Answer
April 20, 2006 8:38 a.m. (12 minutes and 56 seconds later)

REPLIED

If the rash is blistery then the cold sore (herpes simplex) could have spread and this is treated with aciclovir cream and suspension. If the rash has yellow crusts this would indicate a bacterial infection and would require antibiotics. The other possibility is a secondary fungal infection due to your son licking his sore lips! This is treated by an antifungal cream.

Unfortuantly the only way to tell is either to see it or swab it. As using the wrong product will just delay healing.

If you could upload a photo, I may be able to tell from a distance, otherwise you will need to wait until his doctor can see him. Treat him in the meantime with junior tylenol or ibuprofen suspension. Appy some White soft paraffin to keep it soft and act as a barrier if it is very crusty, but wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.

Keep his sponges, towels etc away from the rest of the family for the moment.

Regards

Edited by plaw123 on April 20 2006 at 8:38am

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Reply to Pauline
Sent April 20, 2006 9:20 a.m. (42 minutes and 15 seconds later)

The blisters are not crusty nor do they look like there is anything inside of them. He has a terrible habit of wiping his mouth constantly with a baby wipe. Could this possibly have something to do with this?

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Answer
April 20, 2006 9:25 a.m. (4 minutes and 45 seconds later)

ACCEPTED

If the rash is flattish, perhaps slightly flaky with a clearly marked red edge then fungal infection would definately be encouraged by his bad habit.

The other possibility is an eczema or contact dermatitis especially if the baby wipe is not hypoallergenic.

Your pharmacist may be able to advise a soothing cream to use today while you wait for doctors appointment.

Hope this helps

Regards

__________________
If this answered your question please click ACCEPT, use reply if there is something else you need to know regarding your question.Positive feedback or bonus is very much appreciated.

Pauline -- Pharmacist -- 99% Positive Feedback on 2919 Health Accepts
MRPharmS. Worked as Community pharmacist for 14 years. Undertaking a second degree in medicine.

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