Scarlet Fever Flashcards
What is scarlet fever due to?
A reaction to erythrogenic toxins produced by Group A haemolytic streptococci
What is the most common cause of scarlet fever?
Streptococcus pyogenes
What age of children are usually affected by scarlet fever?
2 - 6 years
4 years is peak
How is scarlet fever spread?
Via the inspiratory route
How does someone contract scarlet fever?
By inhaling or ingesting respiratory droplets or by direct contact with nose and throat discharges
How long is the intubation period of scarlet fever?
2-4 days
How does scarlet fever typically present?
fever
malaise, headache, nausea/vomiting
sore throat
‘strawberry’ tongue
rash
How long does the fever typically last in someone with scarlet fever?
24-48 hours
How is the rash described in someone with scarlet fever?
fine punctate erythema (‘pinhead’)
Appears first on the torso
Spares the palms and soles
Has a rough ‘sandpaper’ texture
What type of texture does a scarlet fever rash have?
A rough ‘sandpaper’ texture
Where does the rash in scarlet fever first appear and what does it spare?
First appears on the torso and spares the palms and soles of the feet
How is scarlet fever diagnosed?
Throat swab
Should you wait for the lab results to come back before starting antibiotic treatment?
No- start antibiotics immediately
What type of disease is scarlet fever?
Notifiable disease
What is the management of scarlet fever?
oral penicillin V for 10 days
