A 5-year-old with 2 days of fever, headache, a runny nose and then this.

Then 2 days later, this.

ERYTHEMA INFECTIOSUM

Erythema infectiosum, also known as fifth disease, is caused by Parvovirus B19. The typical patient is a young child who develops inflamed, bilateral ("slapped") cheeks followed by a lace-like reticulate erythema of the extremities.

• Parvovirus B19
• Child between 4 and 10.
• Late winter and early spring.

Clinical

A prodrome of low-grade fever, headache, and mild cold-like symptoms (e.g. a stuffy or runny nose) occurs. An upset stomach (nausea and diarrhea) may occur. After 1 to 4 days, a red, lace-like rash appears, first on the torso and arms, and then spreads to the rest of the body. It can be quite itchy.

Treatment

No treatment is needed.

RegionalDerm

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