Erythema infectiosum

Abstract

Background: Erythema infectiosum (fifth disease) is a common benign pediatric condition caused by B19 parvovirus. It can be identified clinically by a "slapped cheek" appearance that is often followed by reticulated exanthem on the trunk and extremities.

Objective: This review article provides a concise overview of erythema infectiosum.

Methods: The article is divided into the followings sections: background, epidemiologic characteristics, clinical description, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, laboratory diagnosis, prognosis, and management.

Results: Erythema infectiosum is found to cause a fairly prominent classic rash and generalized symptoms.

Conclusion: Although erythema infectiosum has many distinctive symptoms, the prognosis is excellent because the condition in children is usually self-limited.