Which finding is characteristic of erythema infectiosum in children?

Which finding is characteristic of erythema infectiosum in children?

• A. Koplik spots
• B. Slapped cheeks with circumoral pallor and lacey reticular rash on upper extremities
• C. Roseola rash on trunk
• D. Petechiae on legs

Answer: (B)

Erythema infectiosum is classically identified by a bright red facial eruption that gives a “slapped-cheek” appearance with circumoral pallor, followed days later by a delicate, lace-like (reticular) rash that often involves the trunk and can extend to the arms. This distinctive facial redness paired with the subsequent netlike body rash is the hallmark of the illness caused by parvovirus B19, especially in children. Koplik spots are associated with measles, not erythema infectiosum. A rose-colored rash on the trunk is typical of roseola, usually after a fever spike. Petechiae on the legs suggest other conditions such as platelet/vascular problems or infections.

Erythema infectiosum is classically identified by a bright red facial eruption that gives a “slapped-cheek” appearance with circumoral pallor, followed days later by a delicate, lace-like (reticular) rash that often involves the trunk and can extend to the arms. This distinctive facial redness paired with the subsequent netlike body rash is the hallmark of the illness caused by parvovirus B19, especially in children.

Koplik spots are associated with measles, not erythema infectiosum. A rose-colored rash on the trunk is typical of roseola, usually after a fever spike. Petechiae on the legs suggest other conditions such as platelet/vascular problems or infections.