Breaking Capillaries: An Unusual Rash in Human Metapneumovirus Infection

Abstract

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV), an established cause of bron-chiolitis in infants, has not been previously associated with signi-ficant cutaneous findings. We describe a case of an infant with hMPV infection who presented with a cephalocaudal rash and pe-techiae. Dermatologic evaluation revealed signs consistent with the Rumple-Leede phenomenon. This case highlights the impor-tance of recognizing pressure-induced purpura in the context of viral illness. Recognition of this benign pressure induced purpura will avoid unnecessary workup and isolation precautions.