Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What condition is indicated by a red, raised, serpiginous-shaped rash in a child?

1. Larva migrans

2. Erythema migrans

3. Tinea pedis

4. Insect bites

The correct answer is: Larva migrans

A red, raised, serpiginous-shaped rash in a child is indicative of larva migrans, which is commonly caused by the migration of hookworm larvae under the skin. This condition typically presents with a characteristic winding or snake-like pattern, which is why it is described as serpiginous. The larvae enter the skin, often through contact with contaminated soil, and as they migrate, they create this distinctive rash. In contrast, erythema migrans is associated with Lyme disease and usually presents as a target-like rash, rather than the serpentine pattern seen in larva migrans. Tinea pedis, also known as athlete's foot, primarily affects the feet and is characterized by scaling and sometimes blistering, without the winding shape. Insect bites can cause localized swelling and redness, but they do not typically present with the serpiginous pattern seen in larva migrans. Thus, the unique presentation of the rash in this case directly points to larva migrans as the correct diagnosis.