Mpox is a viral disease that causes a distinctive rash. Recognizing its visual characteristics can help identify potential symptoms. This article guides you through the appearance and progression of mpox lesions, and how they differ from other skin conditions. Remember, viewing images is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical evaluation.
Visual Characteristics of Mpox Lesions
The mpox rash progresses through distinct stages. It begins as flat, discolored spots (macules), which are pink or red. These then evolve into raised, firm bumps (papules). Each stage typically lasts one to two days.
After the papular stage, bumps fill with clear fluid, becoming vesicles. These transform into pustules, which are sharply raised and filled with opaque, pus-like fluid. Mpox pustules are deep-seated and often develop a central indentation or “dimple” (umbilication), resembling small doughnuts or Cheerios.
Over one to two weeks, these pustules dry out, forming crusts or scabs that eventually fall off, revealing new skin. Lesions can appear on the face, palms, soles of the feet, genitals, and inside the mouth. A distinguishing characteristic is that lesions on any given body area are in the same stage of development.
Differentiating Mpox from Other Skin Conditions
Distinguishing mpox from other rashes can be challenging due to similar skin manifestations. Chickenpox, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, is a common mimic. Unlike mpox, chickenpox lesions are superficial, not deep-seated, and appear in various stages of development across the body. Chickenpox rashes often begin on the chest and back before spreading, while mpox lesions may first appear on the face and spread outwards.
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections, such as cold sores or genital herpes, present as localized clusters of vesicles or ulcers. This contrasts with mpox, which causes more widespread lesions following a specific progression. While primary HSV infections may have a prodrome and rash with tender lymphadenopathy similar to mpox, their lesion distribution and progression differ.
Syphilis, particularly in its secondary stage, also causes rashes resembling mpox. Both can cause rashes on the palms, soles, and genital areas. However, secondary syphilis rashes are more varied in appearance (papular, annular, or pustular forms) and may be accompanied by different systemic symptoms and a distinct temporal progression. Allergic reactions or insect bites present with itchy welts or localized redness that do not follow the characteristic progression of mpox lesions through macules, papules, vesicles, and pustules.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Mpox
Self-diagnosis of mpox based solely on images is unreliable due to similarities with other skin conditions. If you develop a new, unexplained rash or other symptoms associated with mpox, contact a healthcare provider promptly. Do this especially if you have had close contact with someone confirmed to have mpox or have returned from an area with known cases.
Before your medical visit, call ahead to inform the clinic or hospital of your suspected condition. This allows them to take precautions to prevent transmission. Also, isolate yourself at home, avoid close physical and intimate contact, and cover any visible sores with bandages until you receive medical advice. Professional testing and diagnosis are necessary to confirm mpox and ensure appropriate care.