VIRAL RASH…OR SOMETHING MORE?

Abstract

Gianotti-Crosti syndrome is a papular or papulovesicular eruption, monomorphous, symmetrically distributed in the face, members and buttocks. We present a clinical case of a four year old boy with a monomorphous papulovesicular exanthema in the extensor aspects of forearm and legs and buttocks, preceded by a upper respiratory tract infection eight days before. The laboratory investigation showed activated lymphocytes, elevated liver enzymes and serologic evidence of acute Epstein-Barr virus infection. Gianotti-Crosti syndrome is an established clinical entity often misdiagnosed. The diagnosis is important as it excludes other pathologies, allowing reassure parents, because of its possible long evolution.