Asymmetric Periflexural Exanthem of Childhood (APEC) is a rare rash that I occasionally encounter in my The Woodlands dermatology and Conroe dermatology offices. The cause is unknown but it is believed to be due to a virus. The basis for a viral etiology is that it occurs in young children in the Spring and Fall and clusters amongst families and close contacts of those affected. The rash begins as red macules or papules limited to one side of the body either in the groin or axilla. Symptoms are minimal with mild pruritus (itching) and APEC affects females twice as often as males. No treatment is needed as the rash is self resolving over several weeks.
