Dear Doctor,

My two-year-old child has developed a rash around her neck. I initially thought it was measles, but she has not shown any other signs of being sick because she plays normally and her appetite is good. What could be the problem? Christine

Dear Christine,

A toddler can have rash on the neck for several reasons. A bite by any insect can cause flat or elevated, reddish rash which may be itchy. It may be due to allergy to some material like lace or elastic of a dress touching there. It can be due to allergy to certain body care products. Allergy to some medicine can also cause a fixed rash. Fungal infection can cause whitish or reddish rash which will again be itching. It may initially be small then grow in size and spread.

Bacterial infection can cause a localised rash which may be inflamed and painful. Viral infections like measles and chicken pox cause flat or popular rashes with intense itching. It may start with one or 2 rashes on any part of the body. Later on multiple rashes erupt all over the body.

If the child is playing well, eating and sleeping well and has no other problem, there is nothing to worry. Try to stop the baby care products you are using for two to four days and watch if rash reduces/disappears or not.

Give her only cotton clothes to wear as nylon can also cause rash and skin problems.

If the rash persists, try applying some soft anti allergy ointment and if necessary, consult a dermatologist.