Life-threatening rashes: Dermatologie signs of four infectious diseases

Abstract

Four anfectious diseases that are associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality are Rocky Mountain spotted fever, meningococcal disease, staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome, and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. These diseases necessitate a timely diagnosis and treatment, which may be facilitated by recognition of the characteristic cutaneous findings. Herein the clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and management are presented, with emphasis on the dermatologie signs of each disease. A dermatology consultation can be valuable, but all physicians should be familiar with the cutaneous findings of these potentially life-threatening diseases. © 1999 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.