Skinpatient.com  

  Skin conditions    Patient support groups  Product information             

ERYTHEMA INFECTIOSUM ( Fifth disease)

This is a common rash occurring in childhood.  It is due to a virus called parvovirus (PV-B19)

It mainly occurs in children but can occur in pregnant women, anemic and individuals with immune deficiency in whom it may have severe problems.

Symptoms that can occur include – headache, fever, sore throat, fatigue.

The rash is typical and looks like a “slapped cheek” appearance on the cheeks.

The rash can also be widespread.

Joint pains can also occur.

In individuals with .....

Pre existing anemia

Pregnancy

Immune deficiencies like HIV 

........there can be severe effects like

Anemia – severe

Aplastic crisis – the blood cells are not produced

It can affect the unborn resulting even in death.

Investigations

Usually none necessary

Blood tests like IgM, polymerase chain reaction may be done.

Treatment

None is necessary

Joint pains, fever, itching may all be treated symptomatically.

ERYTHEMA INFECTIOSUM - CLICK HERE