The fifth disease is a contagious viral disease characterized by rose-colored eruptions diffused over the skin, usually starting on the cheeks. It got its unusual name when it was counted as the fifth of the classic, rash producing infections of children. The other rash producing infections referred to in this chronology were measles, scarlet fever, and rubella.
It is caused by human parvovirus B19 and is transmitted through infected respiratory droplets secretions and through infected blood. The incubation period for the fifth disease is 6 to 14 days. The period of communicability last from several days before the appearance of a rash until the appearance of the rash
Clinical manifestations in the prodromal phase are mild, including; low grade fever, headache, and symptoms of upper respiratory infection.
If a pregnant woman becomes infected with parvovirus B19, it can cause significant harm to her unborn baby. Any pregnant woman who believes that she may have been in contact with a person who has this virus should talk to her health care provider.
Parvovirus B19 is also thought to cause other diseases, including an infectious form of arthritis.
The typical rash in the initial stage is described as a red facial flushing or a slapped cheek appearance. The macular rash spreads rapidly to the trunk and proximal extremities. The centers of the macules fade, which gives the rash a lacy appearance. The rash isn’t present on the palms or soles. It resolves spontaneously in 1 to 3 weeks.
The diagnosis of the fifth disease is usually based on reviewing the clinical presentation of the child, observing the rash and excluding other different diagnoses. Complications of fifth disease are rare. Children with chronic hematologic conditions may occur in adults but are rare in children; there is no specific treatment for fifth disease.
Treatment is directed toward relief of the symptoms:
• Antipyretics such as acetaminophen are given to relieve fever
• Soothing baths or antipruritics can be used to alleviate itching
Fifth disease is benign and self limiting. Because the child isn’t infectious to others when the rash appears, there’s no reason to isolate the child.
source: mdinfo
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