Roseola (Exanthem subitum)

Introduction. 

Roseola (sixth disease; exanthem subitum) is a common childhood infection caused by Human Herpesviruses 6 and 7 (HHV-6 & 7). A high fever followed by a rash that lasts 1 - 2 days is the most distinctive sign.  Other classic childhood exanthems include measles, scarlet fever, rubella and fifth disease. Most common cause of febrile seizures in infants.

Summary

• Cause: HHV-6 and HHV-7
• Microscopy: enveloped Herpesviruses
• Symptoms: High fever, rash (spreads from trunk to face & limbs)
• Transmission: Oral secretion (saliva)
• Complications: Mono-like symptoms, lymphadenopathy, HIV infection cofactor; febrile seizures
• Pathogenesis: life-long infection of lymphocytes; cell -mediated immunity causes rash (T_DTH?)
• Treatment: supportive, self-limited

References/Links

1. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/roseola/