5 year old has a rash around his mouth

[kana73]

Hi
My 5 year old has had a rash around his mouth for 2 months, it seems to come and go throughout the day, never completely disappearing though.  I have tried eczema creams and general creams, none seem to make it any better.  Have eliminated foods I thought may make it worse, doesn't change it.  He does have have excessive saliva, he often is chewing on his shirt!  What should I do?  He doesn't complain of it hurting at all.  

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to dermatitis skin or perioral dermatitis. Treatment consists of oral antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. A mild soap or soap substitute, such as Dove or Cetaphil should be used for washing. Scrubbing should be avoided.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[kehdi22]

Skin rashes sometimes are psoriasis in which are not contagious. They would clear up on their own. Hard to say without looking the rash. Because it has been 2 mos. a dermatologist is recommended.