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Petechial rash in 10 year old

Hi~
Can a petechial rash be totally innocent?  
My 10 year old daughter developed petechiae 2 months ago.  When seen by a doctor she was referred to a childrens' ward that day for blood test to rule out meningitis and low platelets which were negative.  I was told that it was probably a virus, but to get it looked into if it happens again, or doesn't fade.  However, the rash has come back.  It seems to appear for a few days, then fades, but appears somewhere else.  

She sometimes complains of headaches and joint pains.  The joint pains were diagnosed as 'growing pains'.  She also has intermittent diarrhea with tummy pains.  This has been diagnosed as irritable bowel after blood test for celiac came back negative about a year ago.  I don't know if these symptoms are related at all to the petechial rash.  Other than this she seems to be healthy.  The GP (doctor) has referred her to paediatrics for an appointment in 13 days' time.  He also took a urine sample which was okay.

The rash doesn't seem to be linked to a virus as it all began over 2 months ago and she generally seems well in herself, other than these vague intermittent symptoms.  
Could there be an innnocent explanation for this petechial rash, other than virus?  
Does anybody have experience of a petechial rash in children, other than a virus, which was nothing to worry about?
I know that each case will be different, but I'm merely wanting to know whether there are totally innocent reasons for petechial rash other than viral, physical trauma?
Thanks~
Sylvia
3 Responses
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563773 tn?1374246539
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hello,
It is not normal to have recurrent petechaiel rash in children and alone viral infections are not responsible for the recurrence. I suggest you to consult a  hematologist and get other causes ruled out which include allergic reaction, autoimmune diseases, thrombocytopenia, ITP or leukemias. Your daughter needs a complete hemogram along with bone marros examination. this should be got done as soon as possible.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.



Helpful - 0
1 Comments
My son was diagnosed with Steven Johnson's Syndrome when he was 3. He used to ensure these rashes often. Sore throats w/ strep tests. 90% neg for strep. Fevers for No reason. As he has grown symptoms have eased up. Until now. He is 15. We are back to sore throats. Petechial rashes. And a lot of exhaustion. Small town docs. May e time to take him elsewhere to an E.r ?
Avatar universal
Thank you!
Helpful - 0
1701266 tn?1311289271
MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL
Hi,

thanks for the query,

Petechial rash in this age group should not be taken lightly. It's not a disease but just a manifestation of disease., its a clue to find the cause. All the worrying causes need to be ruled out. Its better to get negative results than not searching them timely.

Wish you good health.
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