This type of rash is a symptom of another ailment, rather than being a condition itself. People with a maculopapular rash should see their doctor, especially if they experience other symptoms, as it could signal a serious illness.
Keep reading to learn more about this type of rash and what treatments are available.
What does it look like?
The most distinctive feature of a maculopapular rash is the pattern of macules and papules. A macule is a small, flat, red area of discoloration, and a papule is a small, red, raised lesion.
As a result, a maculopapular rash appears as red bumps against a red background. People with darker skin may not notice the flat, red patch.
A maculopapular rash can appear on any part of the body depending on the underlying cause. It may also spread to other areas. The rash usually lasts from 2 to 21 days.
Chronic maculopapular rashes may last for more than 8 weeks.
Zika virus rash
Scarlet fever
Zika virus rash
Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP)
Measles
Other symptoms
A maculopapular rash may cause itching at the site of the bumps.
It can also cause other symptoms associated with infections and immune reactions, such as:
- breathing difficulties
- dry skin
- fever
- a headache
- muscle pain
- vomiting
Anyone who experiences other symptoms should see a doctor promptly because the infections that cause a maculopapular rash can be dangerous and may spread to other people.
What are the causes?
The following may cause a maculopapular rash:
Infection
Several bacterial and viral infections are known to cause maculopapular rashes. People will experience other symptoms too, including those listed above.
Some infections associated with a maculopapular rash are:
- Ebola virus
- hand, foot, and mouth disease
- hepatitis B
- hepatitis C
- herpes
- HIV
- measles
- scarlet fever
- Zika virus
An allergic reaction occurs when the body mistakenly identifies a substance (allergen) as a threat to the body. A maculopapular rash can be a symptom of an allergic reaction.
Other allergy symptoms include:
- difficulty breathing
- dizziness
- hives
- increased heart rate
- stomach pain
- swelling
Reaction to medication
Some people experience an allergic reaction to a prescribed or over-the-counter (OTC) medication. The rash usually occurs within 7 to 28 days of taking the drug.
Some research reports that the antibiotic amoxicillin caused a maculopapular rash in up to 70 percent of people being treated for a viral infection, most notably for the Epstein–Barr virus.
Other medications that have been associated with maculopapular rashes include:
- allopurinol (Zyloprim)
- angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors
- anticonvulsants
- beta-lactam antibiotics
- hypoglycemic medications
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- sulphonamides
- thiazide diuretics
The reaction can, however, occur in response to almost any medication.
A doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics for a bacterial infection. But antibiotics do not work for viral infections.
Sometimes, the virus will have to run its course. People can manage symptoms with rest, fluids, and OTC pain relievers.
However, more severe viruses, such as HIV, will require a treatment program that might include antiviral drugs.
Allergic reaction
The best way to treat an allergy is by discovering and avoiding the allergen. Antihistamines, topical creams, and cold compresses can alleviate symptoms in cases of allergen exposure.
Reaction to medication
If a drug reaction causes the rash, it may be necessary to stop taking the medication. A doctor may be able to offer alternative treatments.
People should not discontinue use of a medication without speaking to their doctor first.
Relief from itching
To reduce the itching caused by a maculopapular rash, a doctor may recommend OTC antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream. Stronger versions of these medications are available by prescription.
It is essential to see a doctor before treating a maculopapular rash at home so that they can determine the underlying cause.
Takeaway
The outlook for people with a maculopapular rash depends on the underlying cause. Sometimes, the rash is a symptom of a drug reaction or allergic reaction. Avoiding the trigger can clear up the rash and prevent recurrence.
A maculopapular rash caused by a virus will usually resolve once the infection goes away. However, some diseases are more serious than others and can cause severe complications. Some, like HIV, have no cure but can be managed with appropriate treatments.
People with a rash should see their doctor who can provide a more accurate outlook based on their diagnosis.
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