What does a sepsis rash look like and can mottled skin be a sign of septicaemia?

SEPSIS is rare but serious, so it's important that it's treated immediately.

If you are worried that a rash you or your child has developed could be a sign of the condition, we've pulled together some tips for what you should be looking out for.

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What does a sepsis rash look like?

People with sepsis often develop what is called a hemorrhagic rash.

This may be a reddish discolouration, or a cluster of tiny blood spots that look like pinpricks in the skin.

If left untreated, these dark dots gradually get bigger and begin to look like fresh bruises.

They then join together to form larger areas of purple discoloration.

If you or someone you know has a rash that you're worried could be a sign of sepsis, try pressing it down.

A sepsis rash won't fade with pressure so it can help indicate if you need to get help.

Another way to keep an eye on the rash is to mark on your skin where it is each hour, if it is spreading fast - call for help.

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Can mottled skin be a sign of septicaemia?

Yes, it can.

According to the , you should go straight to A&E or call 999 if a child under five looks mottled, bluish or pale.

In older children and adults, cold, clammy and pale or mottled skin could be a sign of sepsis or septicaemia.

Hands and feet may also be cold and clammy, even if the patient has a raised temperature.

What are the other symptoms of sepsis and septicaemia?

In children under five, the NHS recommends going straight to A&E or calling 999 if they:

• look mottled, bluish or pale
• are very lethargic or difficult to wake
• feel abnormally cold to touch
• are breathing very fast
• have a rash that does not fade when you press it
• have a fit or convulsion

In older children and adults, early symptoms of sepsis may include:

• a high temperature (fever) or low body temperature
• chills and shivering
• a fast heartbeat
• fast breathing

In some cases, symptoms of more severe sepsis or septic shock (when your blood pressure drops to a dangerously low level) develop soon after.

These can include:

• feeling dizzy or faint
• a change in mental state – such as confusion or disorientation
• diarrhoea
• nausea and vomiting
• slurred speech
• severe muscle pain
• severe breathlessness
• less urine production than normal – for example, not urinating for a day
• cold, clammy and pale or mottled skin
• loss of consciousness

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Make sure you know the difference between sepsis and septicaemia - for more information, .