Which feature is true of erythema infectiosum rash?

Which feature is true of erythema infectiosum rash?

• A. Lacy reticular rash on extremities that spares palms and soles
• B. Palm and sole involvement with a vesicular trunk rash
• C. Vesicular rash on the face only
• D. Urticarial lesions on the trunk

Answer: (A)

This question tests your ability to recognize the distinctive rash pattern of erythema infectiosum (fifth disease) caused by parvovirus B19. After the classic facial flushing—the “slapped-cheek” appearance—a fine, lace-like, reticular eruption appears on the arms and legs and sometimes the trunk. A key clue is that the rash tends to spare the palms and soles, which helps distinguish it from other viral rashes that involve those areas or have vesicular or urticarial patterns. So, the feature described as a lacy, netlike rash on the extremities with spared palms and soles is the characteristic finding. The other choices describe patterns (vesicular trunk lesions, facial vesicles, or urticarial trunk lesions) that do not match the typical presentation of erythema infectiosum.

This question tests your ability to recognize the distinctive rash pattern of erythema infectiosum (fifth disease) caused by parvovirus B19. After the classic facial flushing—the “slapped-cheek” appearance—a fine, lace-like, reticular eruption appears on the arms and legs and sometimes the trunk. A key clue is that the rash tends to spare the palms and soles, which helps distinguish it from other viral rashes that involve those areas or have vesicular or urticarial patterns.

So, the feature described as a lacy, netlike rash on the extremities with spared palms and soles is the characteristic finding. The other choices describe patterns (vesicular trunk lesions, facial vesicles, or urticarial trunk lesions) that do not match the typical presentation of erythema infectiosum.