Roseola
Alternate Names : Exanthem Subitum, Roseola Infantum
Definition Roseola is an acute disease of infants and young children that is characterized by a high fever and skin rash.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
The disease is common in children 3 months to 4 years old, most commonly in those between 6 months and 1 year. It is caused by a virus, called human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6), although similar syndromes are possible with other viruses. It occurs throughout the year. The incubation period is 5 to 15 days. A fever lasting 3 (sometimes up to 7) days generally precedes the appearance of the rash, and may be as high as 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Febrile convulsions may occur when the fever is high.
Roseola begins with a high fever that generally responds well to acetaminophen. Between the 2nd and 4th day of illness, the fever falls dramatically, and a rash appears (often as the fever falls) on the trunk and spreads to the limbs, neck, and face. The rash lasts from a few hours to 2 days.
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