chickenpox and smallpox rash comparison
source: the u.s. centers for disease control and prevention (cdc).
how initial symptoms differ | 0 to 2 days of mild illness pass before the rash develops. | 2 to 3 days of severe illness pass before the rash develops. |
|---|---|---|
lesions first appear on the face or trunk. | lesions first appear in the throat or mouth, then on the face, or on the upper arms. | |
how the rash lesions differ | lesions develop in successive fashion. while some are new, others are crusting over (in "crops"). | lesions develop at the same time, and they look alike on any one section of the body, such as the abdomen, arms, or face. |
lesions change rapidly, crusting over within 24 hours. | lesions change slowly, scabbing over after 9 to 15 days. | |
lesions sit on the skin surface and look like small blisters. | lesions become firm, dome-shaped, and deep in the skin. | |
rash rarely develops on palms and soles. | rash commonly develops on palms of the hands and soles of the feet. | |
lesions are most concentrated on the torso, with fewest on the hands and feet. lesions can affect the face and scalp, but rarely affect the entire body equally. | lesions are most concentrated on the face, hands, and feet. |
current as of: june 12, 2023
author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
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