- Knowledgebase: Information on Specific Illnesses
- Here you will find discussions of specific illnesses and their management.
- 46. Roseola - Top
- Alternative Names
exanthem subitum
Definition
An acute disease of infants and young children that is characterized by a fever and skin rash.
Causes, Incidence and Risk Factors
The disease is common in children 6 months to 2 years old. It has recently been found to be caused by a virus, called human herpesvirus 6. It occurs most often in the spring and fall. The incubation period is 5 to 15 days. A fever may become as high as 105 degrees Fahrenheit and may persist for 3 to 5 days. Convulsions may occur when the fever is high.
Roseola typically begins with a high fever that responds well to acetaminophen. When the temperature is down the infant or child may behave as if well. Between the 2nd and 4th day the fever falls dramatically and a rash appears on the trunk and spreads to the limbs, neck, and face. The rash lasts from a few hours to a day.
Symptoms
an abrupt onset of high fever
irritability
a rash erupts on the 4th or 5th day of the illness (the fever has usually resolved by the time the rash appears)
Signs And Tests
a history of roseola in the community
a physical exam of rash
lymph nodes on the back of the scalp (occipital nodes)
Treatment
There is no specific treatment. The disease will usually resolve without complications. Measures should be taken to control a fever. Acetaminophen and cool sponge baths may be given. If convulsions occur, sedatives may be prescribed to control the convulsions. Physical activity should be restricted until the rash appears. In most cases, the child is improved when the rash appears.
Expectations (Prognosis)
The probable outcome is good.
Complications
Infection with human herpesvirus-6 is a frequent cause of febrile convulsions in young children. See febrile seizure (children).
Calling Your Health Care Provider
Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if convulsions develop.
Prevention
Avoid others with Roseola, if present.
The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.
- Updated: March 5, 2001
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