Toddler, sudden red patch on arm

[NikiNoo]

My daughter is 17 months old. She has a red (sunburn-like) patch about the size of an egg on her forearm. We are clueless as to what it is or how it got there. My husband noticed it first thing in the morning when dressing her, about a week ago. It doesn't seem to be changing, or fading/healing. It does feel very slightly warmer than her normal skin. It doesn't appear to be painful or itchy. It's not shiny, or blistered. She does suffer from dry skin and mild eczema generally.  

Any ideas?
Thanks in advance.

[NikiNoo]

Thank you.

I will book her in asap. She has no fever, and there is no change to her appetite. But the sooner we find out for sure the better.

Thanks again.

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi,

Differentials may be atopic dermatitis,viral exanthems, allergic reaction to an insect bite. Have you not noted a lighter colored patch in the area when she was born? A birthmark may be excluded here given that this occurred only recently.

I suggest that you have a pediatrician promptly assess this .This may be a case of atopic dermatitis. Also insect bites and fungal infections have to be ruled out. If there is any associated flu like symptoms then a viral rash should also be ruled out.

A consult may be necessary since viral exanthems may present as a skin condition. An atopic dermatitis is still to be considered even if there is no manifest itchiness. Just note for any signs of irritability ,fever, decrease in appetite. If these are present a prompt consult is necessary.