Slapped Cheek Rash Identification
The distinctive 'slapped cheek' appearance, characterized by bright red cheeks resembling a slap, is a key clinical sign.
Identifying the Cause of Slapped Cheek Rash
This specific facial rash pattern is highly characteristic of infection with Parvovirus B19.
This infection is commonly known as Erythema Infectiosum or Fifth disease.
Differential Diagnosis of Rashes
While other viruses cause rashes, they have different typical presentations:
- Rubella: Causes a milder rash, often starting on the face but usually less intensely red and without the distinct slapped appearance.
- Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6): Associated with Roseola, which typically causes high fever followed by a rash appearing after the fever subsides, mainly on the trunk.
- Measles (Rubeola): Presents with a maculopapular rash that starts on the face/head and spreads downwards, accompanied by significant respiratory symptoms (cough, coryza, conjunctivitis).
The 'slapped cheek' presentation is the most defining feature pointing directly to Parvovirus B19.
Important Questions from Viral Infections
- A 26-year old HIV infected male presents with odynophagia. Upper GI endoscopy demonstrates serpiginous ulcers in a normal surrounding mucosa in distal esophagus. The most likely diagnosis is:
- Cytomegalovirus esophagitis is particularly common in which group of patients?
- Which one of the following is a cause of early (0–4 weeks) infection in recipients of haematopoietic stem cell transplantation?
A 16-year old boy presented with fever and a diffuse maculopapular rash. Examination revealed generalised cervical lymphadenopathy and hepatosplenomegaly. After intake of Ampicillin (prescribed by a local practitioner), the rash worsened. The most likely diagnosis is:
Which one of the following antiretroviral drugs is a Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor?
