Synonyms
Exanthem subitum; Sixth disease; Exanthem criticum
Definition and Characteristics
Roseola infantum is characterized by high fever that lasts 3–4 days followed by the sudden appearance of rash at defervescence (hence the term “exanthem subitum” meaning “sudden rash”) [1]. The fever has an abrupt onset and the temperature commonly is in the range of 39–40.5°C. Most children are otherwise well and appear to be happy, alert, and playful. However, some children may exhibit periods of restlessness and irritability during times of increased fever. With defervescence, the typical exanthem appears. Characteristically, the rash is rose pink in color, macular, measuring 2–3 mm in diameter (Fig. 1).
A 10-month-old infant with roseola infantum. Note the rose-pink macules on the trunk.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Access this chapter
Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout
Purchases are for personal use only
References
Leung AK, Kao CP (2006) Consultant Pediatrician 5:561–564
Scott LA, Stone MS (2003) Dermatol Online J 9(3):4
Dockrell DH (2003) J Med Microbiol 52:5–18
Leach CT (2000) Curr Opin Pediatr 269–274
Dyer JA (2007) Pediatr Ann 36:21–29
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Editor information
Editors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
Copyright information
© 2009 Springer-Verlag GmbH Berlin Heidelberg
About this entry
Cite this entry
Leung, A.K.C. (2009). Roseola Infantum. In: Lang, F. (eds) Encyclopedia of Molecular Mechanisms of Disease. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-540-29676-8_3347
Download citation
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-540-29676-8_3347
Publisher Name: Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg
Print ISBN: 978-3-540-67136-7
Online ISBN: 978-3-540-29676-8
eBook Packages: Biomedical and Life SciencesReference Module Biomedical and Life Sciences