Gianotti–Crosti Syndrome (GCS) — also known as Papular Acrodermatitis of Childhood — is a rare but well-recognized skin reaction seen predominantly in children aged 1–6 years.
It typically develops after a viral infection or certain vaccinations, triggering the immune system to produce a characteristic skin eruption.

The hallmark of GCS is the presence of symmetrical, flat-topped, itchy papules primarily on the:

Arms

Legs

Buttocks

Sometimes the face

It usually spares the trunk, which helps in differentiating it from other rashes.

 

👦 Case Summary

A 5-year-old child visited G Square Skin & Hair Clinic, Hubli, with a one-week history of multiple small, itchy bumps over the forearms and legs.

The parents shared that the child had experienced a mild viral fever about two weeks earlier. Shortly after recovery, these skin lesions began to appear.

 

🔍 Clinical Findings

On examination, the child had:

Multiple discrete, flat-topped papules

Lesions distributed symmetrically

Involvement of extensor surfaces (arms and legs)

No lesions on the chest, abdomen, or palms

Mild itching, with no vesicles or pus-filled lesions

These features were classic for Gianotti–Crosti Syndrome.

🧪 Diagnosis

The diagnosis of GCS is primarily clinical, based on appearance and history.
No mandatory tests were required for this child.

In selected cases, doctors may order viral serology to rule out infections such as:

Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV)

Hepatitis B Virus

Coxsackievirus

Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

However, these were not needed in this straightforward presentation.

 

 

💊 Treatment & Management

Since Gianotti–Crosti Syndrome is self-limiting, treatment focuses on providing comfort and reducing irritation.

✔️ Treatment Provided:

Mild topical corticosteroid to soothe inflammation

Calamine lotion for cooling effect

Regular moisturizers to maintain the skin barrier

Oral antihistamine for itch relief

Guidance to avoid harsh soaps and scratching

Parents were also reassured that the condition resolves naturally.

 

🌿 Outcome

With consistent treatment and follow-up, the child experienced:

Marked reduction in itching within a week

Clear improvement in lesions by two weeks

No recurrence

No secondary infection

The condition resolved smoothly, reinforcing its benign and self-limiting nature.

 

🩺 Key Takeaway for Parents

Gianotti–Crosti Syndrome can appear alarming, but it is harmless and temporary.
Early evaluation by a qualified dermatologist helps prevent misdiagnosis, unnecessary treatments, or the use of inappropriate creams.

 

👨‍⚕️ Expert Pediatric Dermatology Care in Hubli

At G Square Skin & Hair Clinic, Hubli, we diagnose and manage a wide range of pediatric skin conditions with gentle, evidence-based care.

If your child develops:

✔️ Sudden rashes
✔️ Persistent itchy bumps
✔️ Unusual skin changes

avoid self-treatment. Consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and safe management.

 

📍 G Square Skin & Hair Clinic – Hubli

Dermatology | Cosmetology | Trichology | Laser Center

📍 Visit: G Square Skin, Hair & Aesthetic Clinic – Hubli, Karnataka
📞 Call/WhatsApp: 91106 10004
🌐 Website: www.gsquareskinandaesthetics.in