DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
Fifth Disease (Erythema Infectiosum)
A mild viral illness caused by parvovirus B19, characterized by a distinctive 'slapped-cheek' rash on the face and a lacy rash on the body. Called fifth disease because it was fifth in a historical list of common childhood rash illnesses.
8.0M
19
Symptoms
Treatment Options
Risk Factors
Diagnostic Methods
- 1Clinical diagnosis
- 2Blood test (parvovirus B19 IgM)
- 3PCR testing
- 4Amniocentesis (fetal infection)
Prognosis
Excellent. Self-limited, resolves in 1-3 weeks. Once rash appears, no longer contagious. Joint pain may persist weeks-months in adults. Risk to fetus if pregnant (anemia, hydrops). Chronic infection in immunocompromised.
Prevention
- Good hygiene
- Avoid close contact when ill
- No vaccine available
- Pregnant women should avoid infected individuals
Research Status
Supportive care only. Self-limited. Important to identify in pregnant women (fetal risk). Can cause transient aplastic crisis in sickle cell disease. IVIG for persistent immunocompromise. Arthropathy common in adults.
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://www.cdc.gov/parvovirusB19/fifth-disease.html
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fifth-disease
- https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
- https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.