$Unique_ID{BRK00963}
$Pretitle{Ill Defined Symptoms and Rare Diseases, Infections or Parasites}
$Title{What is "The Fifth Disease"?}
$Subject{fifth disease virus rash}
$Volume{N-20, A-20}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What is "The Fifth Disease"?


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QUESTION:  Another of those "unusual diseases" you wish for the public to
submit--"The Fifth Disease".  There was a week in which many of those enrolled
in one of our local schools were sent home with this rubella resembling
ailment.  I haven't heard of it since.  What was this "measly" ailment?

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ANSWER:  You are right, it is a disease that resembles measles in that it too,
is caused by a virus and causes a rash.  The fifth such disease to be
recognized (after measles, German measles, chickenpox and roseola) the cause
has recently been discovered to be human parvovirus B19, and this disease is
also known as "erythema infectiosum" (a rash of infection). The incubation
period is 4 to 12 days and the illness itself is usually mild, with low grade
fever, slight malaise, and a typical blotchy rash that provokes a "slapped
face" appearance over the cheeks, before spreading to the rest of the body,
arms and legs.  The condition lasts for from 5 to 10 days, but the rash can
reappear over a period of several weeks, particularly after exposure to bright
sunlight, after exercise, following a hot bath or shower or even during
emotional distress.  When the infection strikes adults, as it may do on
occasion, mild joint pain and swelling may sometimes be seen.  It breaks out
most frequently during the spring months and is common in children and
adolescents.  Special precautions to isolate pregnant women from this
infection are necessary as fetal abnormalities have been reported in women who
become infected during their first three months of pregnancy.  While blood
serology tests exist to establish the diagnosis, the appearance and location
of the rash generally suffices to make the diagnosis.  As yet there are no
immunizations available, and the only treatments available or necessary are
those simple procedures necessary to keep the patient comfortable during this
mild illness.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
