A 10-year-old boy presents to the Paediatric Clinic with a skin rash. The parents report that the symptoms had started with a single red spot over a small scratch and have spread o... A 10-year-old boy presents to the Paediatric Clinic with a skin rash. The parents report that the symptoms had started with a single red spot over a small scratch and have spread over the 4 days. There are several lesions on the cheeks, the trunk and the upper limbs. Physical examination confirms swollen lymph nodes in the arm pits and groins. Blood pressure 100/65 mg, Heart rate 80/min, Respiratory rate 24/min, Temperature 37.4° C. Which of the following is the most appropriate treatment? A. Steroids B. Acyclovir C. antibiotics D. Antiseptics Read more

Understand the Problem

The question describes a 10-year-old boy presenting with a spreading skin rash, likely an infection, accompanied by swollen lymph nodes. We need to determine the most appropriate treatment option from the provided choices (Steroids, Acyclovir, Antibiotics, Antiseptics). Considering the symptoms and the potential for bacterial infection indicated by the swollen lymph nodes, the most appropriate initial treatment needs assessment.

More Information

Given the progression from a single red spot at a scratch site, spreading lesions, and swollen lymph nodes, a bacterial infection is highly likely. Antibiotics are the appropriate treatment for bacterial infections.

Tips

It's a common mistake to confuse viral and bacterial infections. Swollen lymph nodes often indicate the body's immune response to infection. The rapid spread of the rash from a single point of origin (the scratch) is a key indicator of a localized infection spreading.

Sources

• Skin Rashes in Children: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment - emedicinehealth.com