Miliaria Scarlatinosa, A Peculiar and Rare Form of Scarlet Fever - A Case Report

• Published in: Acta dermatovenerologica Croatica Vol. 29; no. 4; p. 228
• Main Authors: Stojković-Filipović, Jelena, Bosić, Martina, Nikolić, Miloš, Lalošević, Jovan
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Croatia 01-01-2021
• Subjects: Female; Humans; Miliaria - complications; Penicillins; Pharyngitis - complications; Scarlet Fever - complications; Scarlet Fever - diagnosis; Streptococcus pyogenes
• EISSN: 1847-6538

Scarlet fever typically presents with distinctive erythematous papular rash following pharyngitis. Atypical forms may develop, making the diagnosis difficult. We present the case of a girl with fever, and unusual vesicular skin eruption (miliaria scarlatinosa) preceded by a skin infection, without mucosal changes. Leukocyte count, C-reactive protein, and antistreptolysin O-titer were elevated. Bacteriological swabs of the skin injury revealed Streptococcus pyogenes. Histopathology was compatible with scarlet fever exanthema. Intramuscular penicillin and topical wound care induced complete remission. It is of great importance to be aware of uncommon clinical presentations of scarlet fever in order to establish a timely diagnosis and prevent potential complications.