Lupus Rash Alternatives: Diseases with Similar Symptoms

* Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection that causes a red, sandpapery rash. It is most common in children and is often accompanied by a sore throat, fever, and headache.

* Measles is a viral infection that causes a red, blotchy rash. It is also accompanied by a fever, cough, and runny nose.

* Rubella is a viral infection that causes a mild, red rash. It is often accompanied by a fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a headache.

* Fifth disease is a viral infection that causes a red, lacy rash on the face and arms. It is also known as "slapped cheek syndrome."

* Drug reactions can also cause a rash that looks like lupus. Certain antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and chemotherapy drugs are all known to cause rashes.

* Other autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and Sjogren's syndrome, can also cause rashes that look like lupus.