scarlet fever
A bacterial infection caused by group A Streptococcus producing erythrogenic toxin, characterized by fever, sore throat, and sandpaper-like rash.
Full Definition
Scarlet fever is an acute infectious disease caused by group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes) strains that produce erythrogenic toxin. The condition typically occurs in children aged 5-15 years and presents with sudden onset of fever, severe sore throat, headache, and characteristic skin manifestations. The rash appears 12-48 hours after fever onset, beginning on the neck and chest before spreading to the trunk and extremities. It has a distinctive sandpaper-like texture, blanches with pressure, and spares the palms and soles. Associated features include strawberry tongue, Pastia's lines (linear petechiae in skin folds), and circumoral pallor. The rash typically desquamates during recovery, particularly on the fingertips and toes. Prompt antibiotic treatment prevents complications such as rheumatic fever and post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis.
Usage
Usage note: Always describe the characteristic sandpaper texture of the rash and associated features like strawberry tongue.
In Context
- "The patient's sandpaper-textured rash and strawberry tongue were pathognomonic for scarlet fever." — pediatric infectious disease consultation
- "Pastia's lines in the axillary and inguinal folds supported the diagnosis of scarlet fever." — pediatric emergency department note