Summary about Disease
Exanthema Subitum, also known as Roseola Infantum or Sixth Disease, is a common viral illness that primarily affects infants and young children, typically between 6 months and 3 years old. It is characterized by a sudden high fever followed by a distinctive pinkish-red rash. The disease is usually mild and self-limiting, with most children recovering without complications.
Symptoms
The primary symptoms of Exanthema Subitum include:
Sudden high fever (often 102-105°F or 39-40.5°C) lasting 3-7 days.
Irritability.
Mild cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose or cough.
Swollen eyelids.
Sometimes, swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
A rash that appears after the fever subsides. The rash is typically pinkish-red, small, and flat or slightly raised. It usually starts on the trunk and spreads to the neck, face, and limbs.
The rash is non-itchy and blanches (turns white) when touched.
Causes
Exanthema Subitum is caused by human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6), and less commonly by human herpesvirus 7 (HHV-7). These viruses are common, and most children are infected with them by the time they enter school. The virus spreads through saliva, respiratory secretions, or close contact with an infected person, even if that person doesn't have symptoms.
Medicine Used
There is no specific antiviral medication to cure Exanthema Subitum. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms:
Fever Reducers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) can be used to lower the fever. Aspirin should be avoided in children due to the risk of Reye's syndrome.
Hydration: Ensure the child stays well-hydrated by offering plenty of fluids, such as water, breast milk, or formula.
Is Communicable
Yes, Exanthema Subitum is communicable. It spreads through respiratory secretions (saliva, coughs, sneezes) of infected individuals, even before they develop symptoms or when they have mild or no symptoms. The disease is thought to be most contagious during the fever phase.
Precautions
Since there is no vaccine, prevention relies on general hygiene practices:
Handwashing: Frequent handwashing, especially after contact with potentially infected individuals, is important.
Avoid Close Contact: Limit close contact with infected individuals, if possible, especially during the fever phase.
Surface Cleaning: Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs.
Respiratory Etiquette: Teach children to cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing.
How long does an outbreak last?
The illness typically lasts for about a week:
Fever: 3-7 days.
Rash: Usually appears after the fever breaks and lasts for a few hours to a few days (typically 1-3 days).
How is it diagnosed?
Exanthema Subitum is usually diagnosed clinically based on the characteristic symptoms: high fever followed by a rash. The doctor will perform a physical examination and ask about the child's medical history. Blood tests are generally not necessary for diagnosis, but they may be ordered in atypical cases to rule out other conditions.
Timeline of Symptoms
Days 1-3 (Incubation): Exposure to the virus, no symptoms. Incubation period is typically 5-15 days.
Days 4-7 (Fever): Sudden high fever (102-105°F/39-40.5°C) develops, often accompanied by mild cold-like symptoms.
Day 7-8 (Rash): The fever breaks, and a pinkish-red, non-itchy rash appears, starting on the trunk and spreading to the neck, face, and limbs.
Days 8-10 (Recovery): The rash fades over a few hours to a few days, and the child gradually recovers.
Important Considerations
Febrile Seizures: The high fever associated with Exanthema Subitum can sometimes trigger febrile seizures in susceptible children. While scary, these seizures are usually brief and do not cause lasting harm. Consult a doctor immediately if a seizure occurs.
Immunity: After having Exanthema Subitum, a child typically develops lifelong immunity to the specific virus (usually HHV-6) that caused the infection. However, it is possible, though less common, to get the disease again from a different virus (HHV-7).
Differential Diagnosis: It's important to differentiate Exanthema Subitum from other viral illnesses that cause fever and rash, such as measles, rubella, and scarlet fever. A doctor can help determine the correct diagnosis.
Consult a Doctor: It's always advisable to consult a doctor if your child has a high fever or a rash, especially if they are very young or have other medical conditions.