Fifth Disease
Introduction.
Fifth disease (Erythema infectiosum) is caused by Parvovirus B19 and causes a
rash on the face ("slapped-cheek" appearance) and other exposed skin.
It is commonly acquired in childhood.
Summary
- Cause: Parvovirus B19
- Transmission: airborne (respiratory droplets)
- Symptoms: Flu-like at first, followed by rash on face and body
- Pathogenesis: Replication in respiratory epithelium leads to
viremia and infection of RBC precursor cells in bone marrow;
immunopathogenesis (rash)
- Complications: aplastic crisis (anemic patients); polyarthritis
- Treatment: none
- Immunity: ?
- Vaccine: Cats & dogs only
References/Links
- http://www.healthofchildren.com/E-F/Fifth-Disease.html
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