The evaluation of viral exanthem begins with a history and physical exam.

Physical findings in someone with a viral exanthem may include:

• Rash:
• Usually pink or red
• May include skin blisters
• Red throat
• Cervical lymphadenopathy:
• Swollen glands in the neck
• Red eyes

Tests are not required to make the diagnosis of a viral exanthem.

Tests that may be used to evaluate a viral exanthem include:

• Strep screen
• Complete blood count
• Monospot
• Blood cultures
• Cold agglutinins
• Chicken pox antibodies
• Rubella titer
• Measles antibody test

For more information:

• Chicken pox evaluation
• Measles evaluation
• Mononucleosis evaluation
• Roseola evaluation
• Rubella evaluation
• Erythema infectiosum evaluation