ABSTRACT

The presence of fever and rash in the critically ill patient presents a challenging diagnostic dilemma. Rapid identification of the cause of fever and rash in critically ill patients is essential for proper management of the patient and, at times, protection of the healthcare workers. Derivation of the etiologic basis of the fever and rash requires a systematic evaluation that encompasses a thorough patient medical history and a detailed physical exam. This syndromic approach necessitates a comprehensive evaluation of the nature, location, and onset of the rash in relationship to the patient’s clinical appearance, pattern of organ involvement, and epidemiological data.