163: Exanthematous Viral Diseases Flashcards
(364 cards)
What is the incubation period for measles?
The incubation period for measles is 7 to 21 days.
What are the common clinical features of measles during the prodrome phase?
The common clinical features during the prodrome phase include fever, malaise, conjunctivitis, coryza, and cough (the 3 Cs), lasting for 4 days.
What is the pathognomonic enanthem associated with measles?
The pathognomonic enanthem associated with measles is Koplik spots, which are small, bright red macules with a 1- to 2-mm blue-white speck on the buccal mucosa, appearing 48 hours before the rash and lasting 12 to 72 hours.
What diagnostic tests are used for measles and when are they most effective?
The diagnostic tests for measles include real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and ELISA. PCR is most successful when performed within 3 days of rash onset, while IgM from ELISA is positive on the first day of the rash and remains positive for at least 30 days.
What are the major complications associated with measles?
Major complications associated with measles include severe diarrhea, pneumonia, otitis media, transient immunosuppression, encephalitis, and a rare form of progressive neurodegenerative disease called subacute sclerosing panencephalitis.
What is the management approach for measles?
The management approach for measles is supportive care, which includes:
1. Antipyretics
2. Fluids
3. Management of complications
There are no specific antiviral therapies approved for measles.
What is the likely diagnosis and the pathognomonic sign to confirm it for a child presenting with fever, conjunctivitis, coryza, and cough followed by a rash?
The likely diagnosis is measles. The pathognomonic sign is Koplik spots, which are small, bright red macules with a blue-white speck on the buccal mucosa.
What is the typical duration of measles rash?
The rash peaks at 3 days and disappears in 4 to 5 days.
What is the most common method for diagnosing measles?
Real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
When does the patient test positive for IgM in measles?
IgM is positive on the first day of the rash and remains positive for at least 30 days.
Who is at high risk for severe measles complications?
Infants, elderly, pregnant women, immunocompromised, and malnourished individuals.
What is the contagious period for measles?
5 days before and 4 days after the onset of the rash.
What are the key clinical features of measles that can help in its diagnosis?
The key clinical features of measles include:
1. Incubation period: 7-21 days
2. Prodrome: Fever, malaise, conjunctivitis, coryza, cough (the 3 Cs), lasting 4 days.
3. Pathognomonic enanthem: Koplik spots (small, bright red macules with blue-white specks on buccal mucosa), appearing 48 hours before the rash and lasting 12-72 hours.
4. Measles exanthem: Nonpruritic, erythematous macules and papules that begin on the forehead and behind the ears, spreading to the neck, trunk, extremities, hands, and feet; peak at 3 days and disappear in 4-5 days.
What are key considerations for ELISA test in the diagnosis of measles?
- It detects IgM antibodies, which are positive on the first day of the rash and remain positive for at least 30 days.
- It may be falsely negative within 72 hours of the rash onset, making timing crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- IgG documentation of a fourfold increase in titers can also support the diagnosis.
What management strategies are recommended for measles in a hospitalized setting?
Management strategies for measles include:
1. Supportive care: Antipyretics, fluids, and management of complications.
2. No specific antiviral therapies are approved for measles.
3. In a hospitalized setting, ensure standard and airborne transmission precautions are followed starting 4 days after rash onset.
What is the recommended dosage of Vitamin A for children with measles?
200,000 international units per day or 100,000 international units per day for infants, administered on 2 consecutive days.
What are the contraindications for the measles vaccine?
Moderate to severe illness, immediate anaphylactic reactions to previous measles vaccine, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals (e.g., HIV infection, immunosuppressive therapy).
What is the primary mode of transmission for rubella?
Direct or droplet contact from nasopharyngeal secretions.
What are the clinical findings associated with primary rubella?
Mild, subclinical disease, low-grade fever, myalgia, headache, conjunctivitis, rhinitis, cough, sore throat, lymphadenopathy, and a rash that appears after a prodrome.
What are the potential consequences of congenital rubella syndrome?
Microcephaly, congenital heart disease, sensorineural deafness, cataracts, glaucoma, low birth weight, and fetal death; 85% of infected fetuses may be affected.
What laboratory tests are used to diagnose rubella?
Rubella-specific IgM antibody test, viral culture (nose, throat, blood, urine, cerebrospinal fluid, synovial fluid), reverse transcription PCR, and CBC showing leukopenia and atypical lymphocytes.
What are the potential risks to the fetus for a pregnant woman exposed to rubella?
The fetus is at risk for congenital rubella syndrome, which can cause microcephaly, congenital heart disease, sensorineural deafness, cataracts, and fetal death. Diagnostic tests include rubella-specific IgM antibody and viral culture from throat, blood, or urine.
What prophylactic measures should be taken for a pregnant woman exposed to measles?
Measles immunoglobulin (IM or IV) should be administered to high-risk patients within 6 days of exposure.
What is the recommended treatment to reduce complications for a child with measles who develops severe diarrhea and pneumonia?
Vitamin A supplementation is recommended for all children with measles to reduce complications.