Fifth disease is a viral infectious disease commonly seen in childhood, often with a mild progression. Caused by the virus Parvovirus B19, this disease is characterized by measles-like rashes. Although it generally progresses mildly, having accurate information about the disease is important as it can lead to significant outcomes in some high-risk groups.
What is Fifth Disease?
Also known as erythema infectiosum, fifth disease is a viral infectious disease caused by parvovirus B19. Although it is common among school-aged children, it can also appear in adults in different forms.
Parvovirus B19 is an infectious disease that spreads through the air or direct contact. The characteristic feature of fifth disease is the development of red rashes on the face and other parts of the body, presenting itself with a distinctive redness on the face like slapped cheeks. At the onset of the disease, flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue, headache, and sore throat are observed, followed by the emergence of rashes.
What are the Symptoms of Fifth Disease?
The symptoms of fifth disease include mild fever, headache, nasal congestion, and runny nose, which typically appear 4 to 14 days after exposure to the virus.
Rashes begin on the face, making the cheeks bright red. These rashes may disappear from one area and reappear in different parts of the body a few days later. The rashes might be itchy and can turn into a lacy mesh-like appearance a few days later. Rashes may become more prominent when the skin is warm or under the sun.
What Causes Fifth Disease?
Parvovirus B19 is a common cause of fifth disease and this virus spreads in droplets when an infected person sneezes, coughs, or touches a surface. Although it is more commonly seen at the end of winter, during spring, and early summer, it can infect people of all age groups.
How is Fifth Disease Transmitted?
Fifth disease occurs when the virus Parvovirus B19 is transmitted from person to person. The common ways of transmission are:
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Respiratory Transmission: Inhaling respiratory droplets spread by patients when coughing, sneezing, or talking is a common way of transmission.
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Close Contact: Living in the same household, being in the same classroom, or sharing the same office environment increases the risk of transmission.
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Transmission During Incubation Period: Fifth disease is more contagious before the rashes appear. After rashes start, the contagiousness significantly decreases.
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Blood Transmission: In rare cases, the virus can be transmitted during blood transfusions.
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Transmission from Mother to Baby: An infection contracted during pregnancy can pass to the baby through the placenta, posing a risk especially in the first half of pregnancy.
How is Fifth Disease Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of fifth disease is often made through clinical examination. The slapped cheek appearance followed by rashes spreading to the body are very typical features for the disease.
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Clinical Evaluation: A pediatrician or an infectious diseases specialist listens to the patient's history and conducts a physical examination. Fever, fatigue, and the progression of the rashes are taken into account.
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Laboratory Tests: In most cases, tests are not necessary. However, in some special cases, particularly during pregnancy or in individuals with a suppressed immune system, blood tests may be conducted for an accurate diagnosis. In these tests, it is possible to detect antibodies (IgM and IgG) formed against Parvovirus B19 or the virus' genetic material through PCR method.
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Examination in Risk Groups: When suspected in pregnant women, both the condition of the mother and the baby are closely monitored. Ultrasound examinations can be conducted to assess whether there is anemia or developmental delay in the baby.
In most children, fifth disease is diagnosed based on clinical symptoms alone. However, blood tests and further investigations may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis in at-risk groups.
How is Fifth Disease Treated?
In most children, fifth disease progresses mildly and resolves on its own thanks to the immune system. The goal of treatment is to alleviate symptoms and ensure the patient's comfort.
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Rest: Ensuring the child gets enough rest accelerates the recovery process.
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Increased Fluid Intake: Consuming water and fluids is important to prevent dehydration due to fever and fatigue.
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Fever and Pain Management: In cases of high fever or headache, antipyretic and pain relievers may be used upon doctor's advice.
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Managing Itchiness and Rashes: The rashes are usually not itchy, but if discomfort arises, moisturizing lotions or mild medications advised by a doctor can be used.
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Joint Pains: If deemed necessary by the doctor, pain relievers may be preferred.
Treatment in At-Risk Groups
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Pregnant Women: As Parvovirus B19 infection, albeit rarely, can cause anemia and risk of miscarriage in the baby, pregnant women should be under the control of both an obstetrician and an infectious diseases specialist.
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Immunocompromised Individuals: In patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, or those with chronic blood diseases, the infection may progress severely. Individuals in this group may need special monitoring and treatment plans under medical supervision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is fifth disease contagious?
Yes, the disease can be transmitted through respiratory droplets. The contagious period is the days before the rash appears. Once the rash appears, contagiousness significantly decreases.
Is fifth disease dangerous?
In children, it usually progresses mildly without causing permanent issues. In pregnant women, individuals with weakened immune systems, and those with chronic blood diseases, the outcomes can be more severe.
Is fifth disease risky during pregnancy?
Fifth disease contracted during pregnancy can, especially in the first half of pregnancy, pose risks of anemia or miscarriage for the baby. Therefore, in case of suspected contact, a doctor should be consulted immediately.
Does fifth disease recur?
No, once someone has had fifth disease, they develop immunity and do not get the disease again.
