Yes, sir... My 16 yr old nephew is healthy, but since Thursday he has had temp. spikes of 102. , aching in his chest and most muscles. A fine red rash on his chest. He was seen in a walk in clinic today and was told it was a virus of some kind...? His platelets are low and WBC s high. I don t have a print out, just a concerned call from my sister in law. He is complaining of shortness of breathe....I m a concerned aunt. Carol Wood, RN, MS
Hello, fever, muscle aches and rash probably points to a viral infection. This is not 100% certain diagnosis though. A thorough clinical examination is needed and perhaps more diagnostic tests. What's concerns me more is his shortness of breath. This symptom calls for immediate medical attention. I would have asked for X-ray, oxygen saturation (SpO2) and electrocardiogram right away, if I were his doctor. Another important test is C-reactive protein. I couldn't suggest a specific diagnosis with the provided information, but the above tests can be very useful to exclude more serious conditions. I hope I've been helpful! If you need further clarifications, please ask and I'll be glad to provide them for you. Kind Regards!