Treatment of erythema infectiosum in a child. Erythema infectiosum in children

Erythema in children is redness of the skin (the appearance of an erythematous rash) caused by various physiological or pathological reasons, including infections, allergic reactions, skin diseases or a banal feeling of shyness. The anomaly can also occur after burns, massage, and physiotherapeutic procedures. The pathology is often confused with rubella, dermatitis, urticaria, and other types of rashes.

What it is

Erythematous rash is a focal lesion of the skin due to dilation of capillaries. It appears in the form of single or multiple spots, which can merge with each other and occupy a large area of ​​the body. The color of the rash is red or pink. There are several types of erythema in a child, each of which has its own clinical characteristics.

Varieties

Depending on the cause, erythema can be physiological or pathological..

Physiological develops as a result of:

• emotional outbursts (excitement, embarrassment, shame);
• exposure of the skin to high or low temperatures;
• contact with the skin of warming substances;
• taking medications that dilate blood vessels.

This form of skin lesions does not require treatment and goes away quickly.

Erythema, as a separate disease, develops due to pathological causes of an infectious and non-infectious nature.

To differentiate the type of disease and successful treatment, it is necessary to know the main causes and symptoms of the most common types of erythema that can affect a child’s skin.

Erythema infectiosum

The causative agent is parvovirus B19-DNA virus, transmitted by airborne droplets, contact and household contact. The disease most often affects children 2-15 years old. It is characterized by symptoms typical of any other viral infection:

• increase in body temperature up to 38 degrees;
• chills;
• runny nose;
• sneezing;
• itching in the nose;
• sore throat;
• pain in joints, muscles;
• general malaise.

2-3 days after the onset of acute symptoms, bright red rashes appear on the cheeks, which disappear without a trace within 2-5 days.

The photo below shows an erythema infectios rash on the cheeks. Small elements of the rash merge with each other to form a large red spot.

The rash then affects the neck, torso, shoulders, buttocks, and thighs. This pathology begins with red round spots that grow in the shape of lace and are accompanied by itching. They pass within a week.

Sometimes, when exposed to UV rays or in stressful situations, spots can reappear in the same places and persist for another 1-3 weeks. This is not dangerous and does not mean that the disease has worsened. With a favorable course of the disease, symptoms and rash may be mild and pass quickly and unnoticed.

Knotty

Develops in tuberculosis, as a result of infectious mononucleosis, streptococcal infection, taking sulfonamide drugs, or for unknown reasons.

The acute form is manifested by the appearance of dense nodes on the legs, knees, forearms, and less often on the neck, buttocks, and face. The nodules are accompanied by painful sensations and, as they resolve, change color from red to purple, and then to yellowish-green. In this case, the rashes swell and give the limbs a swollen appearance. In the chronic course of the disease, the nodes merge into large 10-centimeter spots and appear each time in the same places.

The acute form of the disease in a child is severe, accompanied by high fever, general deterioration of health, inflammation in the joints, and gastrointestinal upset. The rash goes away within 6-7 weeks, leaving behind age spots.

Exudative multiform

Develops in such cases:

• after infectious diseases (herpes, staphylococcus);
• due to taking medications (sulfonamides, tetracycline);
• after vaccination (whooping cough, diphtheria, tetanus).

Accompanied by intoxication and high fever, severe general condition, aching joints. The rash appears on the 4th day of illness and is localized on the bends of the limbs, soles, palms, and hands. Causes itching, burning, pain. In severe cases, it affects the mucous membranes.

A feature of an exudative rash is that it can manifest itself in different forms: merging spots, blisters with serous or bloody filling, papules, erosions after bursting blisters.

The inflammation persists for 1-2 weeks, and then goes away within a month.

Ring-shaped

The causes of erythema annulare have not been precisely established. It is believed that the pathology occurs due to allergic reactions, infections, or is genetically inherited. In most cases, this type of erythema develops in children due to rheumatism, polyarthritis, rheumatic carditis.

The rashes are localized on the body and look like bright red round spots the size of a 5-kopeck coin. Over time, the spots lighten, enlarge and merge with each other, forming a lace pattern. The inside of the lace rings is pale in color, while the outside is bright. The rash is not a cause of concern and goes away after treatment of the disease that caused the lesion.

Erythema toxicum of the newborn

Skin rashes in newborns are a consequence of the body’s adaptation to new environmental conditions. It can be both physiological and pathological (toxic). Physiological redness occurs on the 2-3rd day after birth and goes away on its own after 10 days, without requiring treatment.

The toxic form develops as a result of an allergic reaction. Red compacted spots appear on the bends of the legs and arms, torso, and buttocks, which disappear in 5-6 days. There may be small gray-yellow bubbles inside them. The rash is accompanied by elevated body temperature, enlarged lymph nodes, and restlessness of the baby.

Treatment of all types of erythema

Erythema is quite common in children due to the fact that their skin is delicate and thin. But with timely consultation with a doctor at the first signs of the disease, identification of the cause and adequate treatment, the prognosis of the disease is favorable.

Erythema infectiosum is a disease caused by the human B19 virus. To date, the disease has not yet been sufficiently studied, although the main causes and methods of infection have already been identified.

Erythema infectiosum is especially common in children, although adults can also get it. The disease is a respiratory infection, as it is transmitted by airborne droplets.

Erythema infectiosum in children with weakened immune systems may indicate blood diseases or the presence of any chronic diseases.

Symptoms of erythema infectiosum

The symptoms of the disease may vary depending on various factors: age, the presence of problems with the blood system, concomitant pathologies, etc. The very first symptoms of infection are respiratory signs, which resemble the early period of a cold or flu. Body temperature rises, runny nose, itchy nose, sneezing, sore and sore throat, headache, chills, loss of appetite, general weakness of the body.

After a few days, a rash appears on the body. In some patients, the rash is accompanied by severe weakness in the muscles and joints. Clinical signs of erythema infectiosum are similar to various diseases, so doctors often find it difficult to make a correct diagnosis.

The disease is often confused with other viral and microbial infections: roseola, rubella measles, scarlet fever, measles. Sometimes erythema infectiosum can be confused with various allergic reactions to certain medications or contact dermatitis. Some connective tissue diseases occur with similar symptoms: systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma.

The main manifestations of erythema infectiosum include symptoms similar to colds. They occur a couple of days after the virus affects the body. They often go virtually unnoticed by the patient. In the subclinical course of the disease, the rash can be short-lived and then the patient does not even realize that he was sick. The typical course is accompanied by pain in the abdomen and head, pain in the joints, fever up to 38 degrees, and general malaise.

The rash usually appears on the body on the fifth day from the moment of infection; an atypical course may be erythema infectiosum without a rash.

The manifestation of the rash has a certain character and occurs in several stages. Initially, bright red rashes appear on the cheeks. The face looks as if a child had been whipped across the cheeks. Sometimes the rash spreads to the forehead and chin. This rash lasts for several days, after which it disappears without a trace.

In the second stage, the rash occurs in the torso, neck, shoulders and forearms, buttocks, knees and upper legs. Externally, the rash looks like red round spots, which subsequently grow in the form of “lace”. The rash is accompanied by itching and stays on the body for about a week, after which it completely disappears. However, under the influence of the sun or stress, they may appear again in the same places and do not go away for up to three weeks. The occurrence of a repeated rash does not necessarily indicate a worsening of the condition.

Complications of erythema infectiosum

Erythema infectiosum in children can cause various complications, but not always. First of all, the synthesis of erythrocytes (red blood cells) may stop during the period of illness. As a rule, this complication in healthy people goes unnoticed and does not cause significant problems with hematopoiesis.

If the patient already has problems with the blood system and red blood cells in particular (sickle cell anemia, thalassemia), then this can provoke serious complications in the blood system. A temporary cessation of red blood cell production can manifest itself in an aplastic crisis lasting up to 7-10 days.

Erythema infectiosum is even more dangerous for people with aplastic anemia. In these patients, the disease is accompanied by apathy, attacks of fever, rapid heartbeat and other unpleasant symptoms.

Infectious erythema in children with immunodeficiency can develop into a chronic form, which will ultimately lead to the development of serious damage to the hematopoiesis and bone marrow with the formation of persistent anemia.

Diagnosis of erythema infectiosum

As previously written, laboratory and clinical diagnosis of this disease presents certain difficulties. As a rule, erythema infectiosum can be suspected by the presence of “lace” typical of a rash.

To diagnose erythema infectiosum, it is necessary to carry out a number of laboratory tests: serological examinations to detect a number of antibodies to the virus, general blood tests to determine the level of red blood cells in the blood. The number of platelets and leukocytes is also important, since they are also involved in the process of hematopoiesis and decrease along with red blood cells.

A general blood test also makes it possible to assess the effectiveness of therapy and the beginning of the recovery period.

Treatment options for erythema infectiosum

If erythema infectiosum occurs in children and adults, home treatment is indicated. The principle of treatment is the same as for all viral infections. During fever, it is necessary to remain in bed and take plenty of fluids, as well as symptomatic and antiviral medications.

It is important to note that the presence of the second and third waves of the rash does not indicate the severity of the disease, but is its characteristic feature. During illness, it is worth limiting the intake of hot baths, as well as exposure to the sun and solarium, as this provokes repeated rashes.

Antibiotics are not prescribed for the treatment of erythema infectiosum, as the disease is viral. However, it is possible to prescribe antibiotics if the disease is accompanied by tonsillitis, otitis media, pneumonia or microbial complications.

The disease poses a certain danger during pregnancy, as well as for people with blood diseases or weakened immune systems. In this case, treatment of erythema infectiosum can be carried out in a hospital setting under constant monitoring of laboratory parameters and hematopoiesis. Pregnant women are additionally prescribed an ultrasound of the condition of the fetus, as well as detailed tests for blood and coagulation.

No quarantine measures are taken when treating erythema infectiosum, since the patient from the moment the rash appears is completely non-infectious, therefore, if he feels well, he can easily lead a normal lifestyle.

Currently, scientists are actively developing a vaccine against the B19 virus, so it is possible that vaccination against this disease will be carried out in the near future.

Video from YouTube on the topic of the article:

Erythema infectiosum is a viral disease with predominantly skin manifestations.

This name combines a group of acute conditions with approximately the same symptoms and a similar course.

Initially, they were described as independent diseases, but later they began to be considered varieties of one disease.

Etiology of the disease

For a long time, the causes of erythema infectiosum were unknown. Currently, infection with parvovirus B19 is considered the main etiological factor. This DNA-containing virus was identified in 1974 from human blood serum and received its name from the number and series of the plasma sample being studied. Since July 2013, it has been called Primate erythroparvovirus 1.

The infection is transmitted from an infected person by airborne droplets and vertically (transplacentally from mother to fetus). There is also a risk of infection from transfusions of blood and its components, as well as from organ transplants from a donor infected with parvovirus. But the likelihood of this is low, because the pathogen is not prone to long-term persistence in the human body.

The main target of the virus is erythroid progenitor cells in the bone marrow. In the fetus, cord blood erythroblasts and the fetal liver, the main extramedullary hematopoietic organs, are also affected. This can cause clinically significant disturbances in erythropoiesis, although most often the peripheral blood pattern remains virtually unchanged.

Why a rash appears in certain areas of the body and other symptoms of erythema infectiosum is still not reliably known. The most striking manifestations of the disease are observed in patients with a tendency to hypersensitivity. Often a characteristic rash appears against the background of other diseases: rheumatism, tularemia, tuberculosis. Taking sulfa drugs is also considered a factor that contributes to a more severe and complicated course of erythema infectiosum. Immunodeficiencies of various etiologies operate in the same way.

Video: Erythema infectiosum

Classification

Currently, there are several types of erythema infectiosum:

• sudden exanthema - characterized by the fastest and mildest course;
• infectious erythema of Chamera - most often observed in children;
• erythema infectiosum of Rosenberg;
• erythema nodosum;
• exudative erythema multiforme, its most severe variant is called Stevens-Johnson syndrome;
• undifferentiated form (according to the classification of A.I. Ivanov).

These conditions cannot be transformed into each other; each of them has its own characteristics of the course and nature of the rash.

Clinical picture

The incubation period lasts 1-2 weeks (less often it stretches to 28 days), and the duration of the disease averages from 1 to 3 weeks. The only exception is the severe form of the disease (Stevens-Johnson syndrome), which can last more than 1.5 months.

Symptoms consist of signs of intoxication and exanthema (rash). Moreover, fever always precedes skin manifestations and may decrease after the appearance of rashes. In some forms of the disease, arthralgia and arthropathy also appear; moderate hepato- and splenomegaly and mild meningeal syndrome may be observed. Anemia, leukopenia and neutropenia are signs of massive damage to bone marrow cells.

The rash with erythema infectiosum is profuse, confluent, predominantly macular, roseolous and maculopapular. Some forms of the disease are also characterized by the appearance of nodes or vesicles. Exanthema on the face leads to the appearance of “spanked cheeks” with diffuse redness. And on the extremities, the rash usually resembles lace and consists of merging round spots, rings and half-rings. The nature and localization of the rashes are the basis for diagnosing the types of erythema infectiosum, and this has virtually no effect on the treatment regimen.

Elements of exanthema gradually fade and disappear, while the spots become ring-shaped. This phase of the rash is called the reticular phase. In some cases, lamellar or pityriasis-like peeling persists for a short time in areas of severe rash. The disease does not leave behind external defects: scars, areas with altered pigmentation, thickening or thinning of the skin.

Features of different forms of the disease

Sudden exanthema

It is characterized by a rapid and significant increase in body temperature, which is accompanied by general moderate intoxication. On days 3-4, there is a rapid critical resolution of the fever with the simultaneous appearance of spotty rashes on the face, limbs, and torso. The rash persists for no more than 3 days and then disappears spontaneously and without a trace.

Erythema infectiosum of Chamera

This form is not characterized by severe fever and severe intoxication; the temperature is usually low-grade or normal. A spotty rash appears from the first day of illness and is localized mainly on the face. The fusion of its individual elements leads to the appearance of the “butterfly” symptom. Waves of repeated rashes are possible, which usually appears against the background of respiratory infections and hypothermia. Erythema infectiosum of Chamera in adults may be accompanied by mild arthropathy. And children tolerate the disease easily.

Video: Erythema infectiosum

Erythema infectiosum of Rosenberg

It begins with severe fever with general intoxication. The rash appears against the background of persistent hyperthermia on days 4-5 of the disease. Multiple confluent spots are visible on the skin of the extensor surfaces of large joints and buttocks, the face remains clear. The rash disappears after 5-6 days, soon after the temperature normalizes.

Occurs against the background of some ongoing infections. The appearance of rashes is accompanied by a new wave of fever, increasing intoxication, and arthralgia. On symmetrical areas of the limbs, dense, painful, slightly raised red nodes appear, which then become cyanotic or yellowish. The resolution of the rash is gradual over 3 weeks.

The course resembles Rosenberg's erythema. But the rash with this form of the disease is polymorphic; in addition to spots and papules, blisters with transparent contents appear. In Stevens-Johnson syndrome, such bursting vesicles also appear on the mucous membranes. This leads to erosive and ulcerative lesions of the mouth, pharynx, genitals, and anus.

Undifferentiated exudative erythema

It has no characteristic features and usually proceeds easily. The rash may appear on various parts of the body and resolves quickly.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of erythema infectiosum is based on the characteristics of the clinical picture. In this case, it is necessary to exclude many diseases that occur with exanthema. Infectious erythema is differentiated from measles, rubella, erysipelas, scarlet fever, leptospirosis, cutaneous leishmaniasis, typhus, systemic lupus erythematosus, infantile roseola and other diseases. And with erythema multiforme, serum sickness and drug toxicderma are excluded.

To verify the diagnosis in difficult cases, PCR is used (allows detection of viral DNA) and ELISA (determining the titer of specific antibodies of different classes). A high level of Ig G to parvovirus in the absence of Ig M indicates a previous disease.

Treatment

Treatment of erythema infectiosum depends on the severity of the main symptoms. A mild disease requires only symptomatic therapy: antipyretics and local antipruritics. If necessary, antihistamines are added, especially in the case of erythema nodosum. Sulfonamides must be discontinued if they were prescribed for the treatment of a previous infectious disease.

Severe course and signs of exudative erythema multiforme are the basis for starting corticosteroid therapy. It is also necessary if the patient has an immunodeficiency. In some cases, various antiviral drugs are prescribed, although they do not have a narrowly targeted effect on parvovirus.

Video: Erythema multiforme exudative

Forecast

Erythema infectiosum in children and adults is usually quite mild, rarely complicated and does not pose a threat to life. An exception is Stevens-Johnson syndrome, which is sometimes fatal.

If a person has a history of previous blood disorders, erythema infectiosum may be complicated by anemia. The most severe form of this condition is aplastic crisis, requiring transfusion of blood or its individual components.

When a pregnant woman is infected, there is a risk of intrauterine fetal death. Therefore, another name for erythema infectiosum is fifth disease. This is explained by the fact that many doctors equate it to the TORCH group, which includes the potentially teratogenic rubella, toxoplasmosis, herpes and cytomegalovirus infection. Viral erythema is most dangerous during the gestational period of 10-26 weeks; infection during this period can cause miscarriage. But this infection does not pose a threat to the life of the pregnant woman herself.

Erythema infectiosum leaves behind lifelong immunity, regardless of the severity of symptoms. Specific antibodies are formed even in the latent (inapparent, asymptomatic) form of the disease. Often people learn about parvovirus infection only after a serological test.

Prevention

Viral erythema is not a highly contagious infection and has no specific prevention. General improvement of the body, reduction in the level of allergization, timely and competent treatment of underlying diseases help reduce the risk of complications.

A pregnant woman is advised to avoid crowds, use masks if necessary, rinse her mouth and wash her nose after contact with a patient suspected of erythema infectiosum. If a fever and rash develop, she needs to see a doctor as soon as possible and get tested.

Erythema infectiosum is caused by parvovirus and is characterized by the appearance of a rash. The disease is acute - with an increase in temperature, the appearance of redness on the face, and a lace-shaped rash on the torso and limbs.

The infectious disease has not been studied enough. It is often confused with other pathologies.

Children aged 5–15 years are most often susceptible to infection. Sometimes infants suffer from erythema. The virus often affects newborn babies in the first 3 days. But this form quickly passes on its own, without any consequences for the body.

Infection with erythema also occurs in adults, but is extremely rare. The pathology is a respiratory disease and is transmitted by airborne droplets. If a child gets sick, immediately after detecting a rash on the skin, you need to show the baby to a doctor.

Doctors have identified several forms of pathology. Depending on the type of disease, a course of treatment is prescribed.

The disease is an infectious pathology in which large rashes appear on the body (most often the face). The onset of the disease occurs in an acute form and is expressed by fever and sore throat.

Children aged 5–10 years most often suffer from the pathology. The disease is not rare, but since it has not been well studied, it is often confused with manifestations of other diseases - measles, dermatitis, rubella, roseola.

The disease is not dangerous and responds well to treatment. After recovery, no marks remain on the skin. Children most often get sick (in schools, kindergartens).

Causes of the disease

The main cause of erythema infectiosum is considered to be the B19 DNA virus (parvovirus). Other circumstances causing the development of the pathological process have been identified:

1. Tick ​​bite.
2. Predisposition to allergies.
3. Intoxication of the body.
4. Tuberculosis.

The causes of pathology can be household items. There is a high risk of infection after a blood transfusion or organ transplant.

The development of erythema is promoted by poor circulation and viral diseases. It is also common that the cause is regular friction against the skin of tight clothing. In newborns, the appearance of pathology is caused by allergies and weak immunity.

Erythema is dangerous for pregnant women, especially in the first 3 months of pregnancy. At this stage, pathology can lead to fetal loss. If the pregnancy was maintained, the child develops normally and his health is not in danger.

Most often, erythema is transmitted by airborne droplets. Different types of erythema are caused by different types of viruses.

Types of erythema infectiosum and symptoms

The main signs of the disease are similar for all types of erythema. But there are various viruses that cause slight differences in the appearance of the rash and symptoms in the patient.

The photo shows erythema infectiosum in infants with a pronounced rash on the cheeks.

Doctors distinguish types of erythema infectiosum:

• multiform;
• nodal;
• ring-shaped;
• migratory;
• sudden;
• undifferentiated;
• Rosenberg;
• Chamera.

Exudative erythema multiforme in children is characterized by the appearance of blistering rashes. There is a clear liquid inside. When the vesicle ruptures, red abrasions with a crust form. The rash is itchy and stinging.

A child may develop Stevens-Johnson syndrome, when infected, the patient's mucous membranes of the pharynx, mouth, genitals, and anus are affected. The polymorphic form in some cases even leads to death. The disease is caused by viruses that provoke infectious diseases (sore throat, tonsillitis, sinusitis, whooping cough).

Rashes with erythema nodosum (nodosum) are dense, they rise above the surface of the skin; have a diameter of 3–5 cm. The color of the rash changes over time: initially it is red, later changes to blue, then to yellow. After 3 weeks the rash goes away.

The disease is accompanied by high fever and undulating fever. The main cause of erythema nodosum is considered to be tuberculosis. Sometimes the disease is caused by rheumatism and tularemia.

The ring-shaped form of erythema appears after intoxication of the body, damage by streptococcus.

The migratory form is sometimes called toxic. Ring-shaped redness appears on the body. They quickly increase in size and do not go away on their own.

Sudden erythema is characterized by an increase in body temperature that lasts 2 to 3 days. However, other symptoms do not appear. On day 3, the skin becomes covered with red rashes. After 7 days everything goes away. The pathology affects children 2 years of age. The disease is caused by the herpes virus.

Erythema infectiosum undifferentiated type has not been sufficiently studied. It occurs in a mild form, the skin rash is different, not typical for other types. Symptoms are mild.

Rosenberg's erythema occurs in schoolchildren and adolescents. Abundant maculopapular rashes appear in the bends of the limbs and on the buttocks. The liver, tonsils and spleen become enlarged.

Erythema Chamera subspecies is a contagious form and is transmitted by airborne droplets. Symptoms of erythema infectiosum in this form of pathology are characterized by butterfly-type rashes on the body.

An inflammatory process develops in the upper respiratory tract. Headaches appear. Possible signs of conjunctivitis. Chamera's erythema is caused by parvovirus.

The disease affects children aged 4–12 years. The incubation period is 7 – 17 days. The first sign of the disease is a rash that grows quickly. They cover the child's face and hands. The cheeks are most often affected.

The nose and mouth area remain clean. The forehead is covered with spots, but much less than the cheeks. Rashes on the trunk and limbs are less common. The location of the rashes differs from their location with measles and rubella.

The spots have a convex shape, similar to blisters. They rapidly increase and merge, forming one large inflammatory focus.

If treatment is not started, a light spot appears in the center of individual spots. It sinks slightly (is no longer in the center) and acquires a grayish tint. The cheeks become puffy and hot. The spots have clear outlines. The border between healthy skin and affected skin is clearly visible.

The appearance of rashes on the hands begins in the elbow area. From this focus, the redness spreads to the fingers and then higher - to the shoulders. The legs are less commonly affected by erythema infectiosum. In the area of ​​the folds, the redness is small and similar to measles or urticaria.

Spots rarely appear on the body. Usually after 2 - 3 days, pale spots with a characteristic marbled pattern may appear in other areas.

In children, the course of the disease is similar to measles and scarlet fever. After a couple of days, the rash turns brown. Usually the red spots go away without leaving marks on the skin, but sometimes faint pigmentation may remain.

On average, spots stay on the body for 6 – 10 days. Relapses often occur when there has been thermal exposure (or when certain parts of clothing rub against the child’s skin).

The main symptom of erythema infectiosum is the appearance of red spots, but other manifestations of the disease are possible. In some cases, the baby experiences:

• general malaise;
• anxiety;
• nausea, vomiting;
• temperature increase;
• painful swallowing.

The child may also experience pain, mild itching, and sleep poorly. Typically, other symptoms are mild and much less common. The most severe manifestations are the multiform, exudative, form of erythema.

Diagnostics

After detecting spots on the body, it is necessary to show the child to the pediatrician. The doctor refers the baby to a dermatologist and infectious disease specialist for consultation. Diagnosis of the disease is based on the nature of the spots and their location. To determine the diagnosis, a visual examination is used, and research is carried out:

• blood test;
• serological;
• histological;

Scrapings are also taken from the surface of the skin. A blood test shows that the number of polynuclear neutrophil leukocytes decreases and the number of eosinophils increases.

Treatment

The therapy does not require special drugs. The child is given antihistamines prescribed by the doctor. During the treatment of erythema infectiosum, hygiene procedures should be observed with special care, otherwise the child may be infected with staphylococcal or streptococcal bacteria.

Clothes (especially underwear) should be changed daily and washed at a temperature not lower than 60. The room where the baby is is ventilated every day. During illness, the child must be provided with bed rest. It's good to drink plenty of fluids.

Depending on the form of the disease, the doctor prescribes treatment. It is good to combine medications with folk remedies. This will enhance the therapeutic effect and alleviate the baby’s condition.

If the disease is mild, home treatment and bed rest are sufficient. In difficult situations, the patient has to be hospitalized.

Medication method

For the treatment of any form of erythema, the following is prescribed:

• antibiotics;
• antihistamines and antibacterial drugs.

In difficult situations, corticosteroids are prescribed. Pain and fever are relieved with antipyretics. Ring pathology in children is treated with topical antimicrobial drugs (for example, Erythromycin ointment).

Electrophoresis is prescribed to treat erythema nodosum. The procedure is carried out with solutions of potassium iodide and sodium. In some cases, laser therapy, phonophoresis, ultraviolet irradiation, and magnetic therapy are used. Such manipulations can be prescribed by a dermatologist. For some types of pathology, physiotherapeutic procedures will harm the child.

Nutrition adjustments

The diet should be gentle - potentially allergenic foods, smoked, fried, and salty foods are excluded from the menu. Citrus fruits, chocolate, and canned food should not be given. Such products will complicate the child’s condition and weaken the immune system.

ethnoscience

Traditional methods of treatment as an independent type of therapy will not help the child. The optimal result will be achieved by combining all possible types of therapy. Treatment methods with folk remedies should be agreed with your doctor. Manipulations are carried out several times a day.

Typically used to combat rashes:

• anti-inflammatory decoctions of chamomile, lemon balm, calendula, immortelle;
• berry decoctions;
• infusions of elderberry, rosehip, rowan;
• lotions from chamomile, oak bark;
• arnica-based ointment.

Possible complications

As a rule, erythema infectiosum occurs without complications. With timely and correct treatment there is no threat to the baby’s health. After an illness, the child develops immunity to the pathology.

If the baby has a blood disease, complications are possible. For children with immunodeficiency, their health may deteriorate.

In some patients, erythema multiforme can cause negative consequences. It appears against the background of complex diseases and can lead to serious problems. If the child is not treated in time, the development of the disease can lead to death.

Prevention of erythema infectiosum

The virus is easy to catch in a clinic, public transport, or a sandbox. To prevent the disease you should:

1. Maintain hygiene standards.
2. Avoid places with large crowds of people.
3. Maintain a sleep schedule.
4. Wash your hands after walking.
5. Strengthen the child's immunity.

If the baby has had erythema, immediately after the illness there is a risk of relapse. To avoid this, you should:

• avoid hypothermia;
• do not walk in the open sun;
• avoid stressful situations; do not allow the baby to be nervous;
• include vitamin supplements in your diet.

Although erythema infectiosum is not a dangerous disease, if your baby develops a rash, you should immediately consult a doctor. The child must be isolated and follow the doctor's instructions.

During illness, you should avoid foods that can cause allergies, you need to create maximum peace for your baby. Self-medication is unacceptable; there is no need to hope that the disease will go away without therapy.

Erythema infectiosum, a viral disease, is characterized by the appearance of a rash throughout the skin, as well as cold symptoms. Children and teenagers most often suffer from this scourge, but sometimes it complicates the lives of adults as well.

In most cases, the disease is transmitted by airborne droplets, and it can also be triggered by problems with the blood. This pathology is especially dangerous for women who are carrying a child, since it can lead to miscarriage and various lesions in the fetus.

Classification of the disease

Erythema is an acute viral disease and is almost always accompanied by an increase in body temperature, the appearance of red spots on the face (wet and dry), and a rash throughout the body.

Doctors call this pathology the fifth disease - erythema infectiosum is in the same group as herpes, toxoplasmosis, rubella and cytomegalovirus infection. Its causative agent is a virus of the parvovirus group. This disease appears only once. After recovery, the body develops lifelong immunity.

Currently, doctors classify this infectious disease into several different types:

• Sudden exanthema is considered the simplest form of the disease and is easily treatable. The rash and fever usually last no more than 3 days and often go away even without medical intervention.
• Infectious Erythema of Chamera - in this form, the body temperature usually remains within normal limits, a spotty rash is localized on the face and appears from the first day of illness.
• Erythema of Rosenberg. Its first sign is a pronounced fever with general intoxication. Rash and redness usually appear on the 5th day of the disease, and they usually form on the torso, while the face remains clear.

• Exudative erythema multiforme - not only a rash and redness appears on the body, but also blisters of various diameters with clear liquid inside. If they form on the mucous membranes, there is a possibility of ulcerative lesions of the mouth, pharynx, and genitals.
• - characterized by the appearance of dense red nodules, which, when pressed, will cause pain. These nodules rise slightly above the skin and over time acquire a yellowish tint. Viral erythema nodosum goes away no sooner than after 3 weeks.
• Undifferentiated form - has no specific features and occurs easily. The rash appears on different parts of the body and face.

Since all these conditions are characterized by special symptoms and the nature of the rash, they cannot transform into each other.

Causes

Erythema infectiosum in children and adults most often develops for the same reasons. At the initial stage, it causes only small rashes and mild discomfort, after which the condition stabilizes.

Doctors say that a person can suffer from this disease only once, after which immunity is developed. The primary source of erythema infectiosum is most often the following factors:

• weakening of the body's protective properties;
• lack of vitamins and various microelements;
• presence of chronic diseases;
• presence of blood diseases.

Symptoms

Parvovirus affects the body in such a way that at the initial stage a person’s condition is very similar to a common cold. The patient begins to constantly sneeze, he develops general weakness, headache, and loss of appetite.

After 3-4 days, a rash begins to form on the skin, and the body temperature will rise to 37-38 degrees. But in rare cases the indicator rises to 40 degrees. In some patients, the headache is so severe that it resembles a migraine.

Discomfort and pain in the abdominal cavity are also often noted. As a rule, the rash begins to appear on the 4th day, it manifests itself in stages:

• the appearance of red spots on the cheeks (with uneven outlines);
• the appearance of a rash on the chin and forehead;
• distribution of red spots throughout the body. They can completely cover the body in just a few hours;
• the appearance of severe itching and burning (such sensations will last about a week).

With erythema infectiosum in adults and children, redness and itching will increase several times after exposure to the sun. To speed up treatment, doctors strongly recommend avoiding exposure to sunlight.

Diagnostics

In order to select the appropriate treatment method and prescribe the right medications, the specialist needs to make sure that the person is faced with erythema; it is especially important to correctly diagnose the child.

The difficulty is that this disease resembles other skin diseases in its symptoms, so it is often diagnosed untimely. To correctly identify this disease, it is necessary not only to examine the patient and collect anamnesis, but also to prescribe some laboratory and instrumental studies.

If a patient is suspected of having this infection, the standard diagnostic plan includes:

• a comprehensive examination of the patient, identifying the location of the rash and assessing the type of neoplasm;
• serological examination, which shows a number of antibodies to the virus;
• complete blood count (to determine the level of red blood cells, leukocytes and platelets);
• linked immunosorbent assay.

If necessary, the patient may also be prescribed a consultation with more specialized specialists - a dermatologist and an infectious disease specialist.

Treatment

Since erythema has a viral etiology, it is impossible to cure it in a specific way; the approach must be comprehensive.

Most doctors believe that treatment should be aimed at eliminating symptoms. If a person experiences an increase in temperature, he is given antipyretics; if pain occurs, he is given painkillers.

The use of antibiotics is prescribed extremely rarely, only if the disease is accompanied by sore throat, pneumonia or otitis media. If the disease is difficult to treat, doctors can also supplement the course with glucocorticosteroids.

Treatment in most cases is carried out at home, and full recovery occurs within 3 weeks. The spots and rash begin to disappear approximately 5 days after starting to take the prescribed medications, first the lower extremities are cleansed, and then the upper torso.

To speed up the recovery process and not provoke complications, patients are advised to spend as little time outdoors as possible and not to apply decorative cosmetics to the skin.

Patients should also adhere to bed rest and drink plenty of fluids. During the treatment period, it is strictly contraindicated to take hot baths and be in the sun.

Experts say that if the patient is prescribed suitable medications, there is a possibility of the disease reappearing within the next months after traces of the rash disappear.

You cannot prescribe medications yourself to treat erythema infectiosum; if the medications are chosen incorrectly, this can only aggravate the situation and provoke complications.

Treatment of erythema in children

Erythema infectiosum in children is treated a little differently, since the children's body is more vulnerable and susceptible to modern medications. If this diagnosis is confirmed in a child, then all treatment measures will be aimed at reducing the likelihood of complications.

The baby will also need to adhere to bed rest, take antipyretic medications and drink as much fluid as possible. Treatment of areas with rashes with antiseptic solutions and ointments for external use has also proven to be very effective.

Erythema in children is difficult to treat. If treatment is started in a timely manner, the baby’s condition will improve significantly in 7-9 days. In order to reduce the risk of relapse of the disease, in the first months after recovery the child will need to be protected from the following factors:

• stress, nervous experiences, emotional tension;
• hypothermia;
• prolonged exposure to sunlight.

Erythema infectiosum is an extremely unpleasant disease that can appear at virtually any age. Unfortunately, there is no specific prevention for this disease.

In order to minimize the risk of illness, it is necessary to constantly monitor your health, promptly treat underlying diseases and strengthen your immune system. If you develop a fever or skin rash, you should make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.