Itching is the rule. There is a tendency for new lesions to occur in crops. Lesions may be moe numerous in skinfolds or in the diaper area. Occasionally, the lesions may be bullous or hemorrhagic. Residual scarring is exceptional.
Constitutional symptoms tend to be mild even in the presence of extensive exanthem.
The most common complication is secondary infection of the skin lesions, usually caused by streptococci or staphylococci. These skin infections may lead to severe sequelae. Septicemia can occur. CNS complications, which are uncommon, include encephalitis, cerebellar ataxia, aseptic meningitis, and myelitis. Glomeruonephritis, myocarditis, and arthritis have also been reported.