Erythema Infectiosum (5th disease) Flashcards
What is the etiology of 5th disease?
Human parvovirus B19, a DNA-containing virus
How is 5th disease transmitted?
contact with respiratory tract secretions, percutaneous exposure to blood or blood products
Where/when do outbreaks commonly occur?
elementary or junior high schools during the late winter
How is 5th disease most commonly spread?
large droplet from nasopharyngeal viral shedding
What are the symptoms of 5th disease?
Characterized by mild systemic symptoms, fever in 15% to 30% of patients, and, frequently, a distinctive “slapped cheek” rash
T/F: person is most infectious once rash appears
False
viral symptoms start 7-10 days before rash
no longer contagious once rash appears
What other symptom usually accompanies the “slapped cheek” rash?
a symmetric, maculopapular, lace-like, and often pruritic rash can occur on the trunk, moving peripherally to involve the arms, buttocks, and thighs
“serpentine rash”
When might a child’s parent notice that the serpentine rash is most severe?
bath time, after playing outside, anything that causes vasodilation
What is a less common symptom that sometimes occurs in adults (women)?
Arthralgia/arthritis
How is 5th disease diagnosed?
Clinical diagnosis
Absence of cough and corzya (acute rhinitis) seen with measles
How is 5th disease treated?
symptomatically, fever reducing agents/fluids
