Roseola infantum (also known as exanthem subitum, occasionally sixth disease) is a common disease of infancy caused by the human herpes virus 6 (HHV6). It has an incubation period of 5-15 days and typically affects children aged 6 months to 2 years.
Features
- high fever: lasting a few days, followed later by a
- maculopapular rash (lace like)
- Nagayama spots: papular enanthem on the uvula and soft palate
- febrile convulsions occur in around 10-15%
- diarrhoea and cough are also commonly seen
Management
- Self limiting, supportive management
- School exclusion is not needed.
Other possible consequences of HHV6 infection
- aseptic meningitis
- hepatitis