Mild viral disease of infancy and childhood characterized by high fever and enlarged lymph node.

Also called exanthem subitum, sixth disease, and/or Zahorsky's disease.

Roseola infantum is a mild viral disease affecting infants and young children between the ages of 6-18 months. It is characterized by an abrupt high fever of 104°F (40°C) or higher, mild pharyngitis (inflammation of the pharynx), a runny nose, and enlarged lymph nodes. The high fever may cause convulsions; if this occurs, a physician should be consulted immediately. The fever subsides after four to five days, followed by a faint, flat, pink rash on the neck, body, and thighs. A white circle may appear around the individual spots. Depending on the severity of the disease, the rash can last from several hours to two days.

Treatment includes bed rest, fluids, and medication to reduce the fever.

For Further Study

Books

Brown, Jeffrey L. The Complete Parents' Guide to Telephone Medicine: A Ready Reference for Childhood Illnesses, Common Emergencies, Newborn Infant Care, Psychological and Behavior Problems. New York: Putnam, 1988.

Infectious Diseases of Children. 9th ed. St. Louis: Mosby, 1992.