Slapped Cheek

Question 1

What pathogen causes slapped cheek syndrome?

Answer 1

1. Parovirus B19 virus

Question 2

Symptoms of slapped cheek

Answer 2

1. Mild feverish illness - general headache, coryza

2. Rash

Question 3

When is the infectious phase?

Answer 3

The phase preceding the rash
Once rash appears, no longer infectious
Children feel better once rash comes

Question 4

Describe the rash in slapped cheek?

Answer 4

1. Cheeks get bright red rash
2. Spreads to proximal arms and extensor surfaces
3. Spares palms and soles of feet

Question 5

Major complications

Answer 5

1. Pregnancy - affects baby < 20 weeks of pregnancy and can cause hydrops foetalis
2. Aplastic anaemia - in sickle cell disease, virus supresses erythropoesis causing pancytopenia

Question 6

Tx

Answer 6

no specific treatment