Many of the presented cases highlighted examples in which there was extensive workup, hospitalization, subspecialty evaluation, and even incorrect treatment of patients.

In other instances, such as with Henoch-Schonlein purpura, Waardenburg syndrome, or McCune-Albright syndrome, the correct diagnosis was necessary to help guide management and future treatment, including subspecialty evaluation.

Key Takeaway

Many diseases with visual presentations will have a benign course and require no treatment. Acknowledging this is important in providing reassurance to a family that may be very anxious over the physical appearance of their child.

This session underscores the need for experience and exposure to various signs not only with rare medical conditions but also in common illnesses such as Kawasaki disease and scarlet fever that may present similarly.

Chandani DeZure, MD, FAAP, is a pediatric hospitalist at Children’s National Health System and instructor of pediatrics at George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences in Washington, D.C.