A 15-month-old boy presents with high fever for 3 days followed by abrupt defervescence and the sudden emergence of a rose-pink maculopapular blanching rash starting on the trunk. The child is playful and active. What is the diagnosis?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Roseola infantum (Exanthem subitum)
- Step 1: Sudden high fever lasting 3-4 days in a toddler that resolves abruptly, immediately followed by a rose-pink maculopapular rash on the neck and trunk, is classic for Roseola infantum.
- Step 2: The condition is caused by Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6).
- Step 3: In measles, the rash erupts during peak fever; rubella features suboccipital lymphadenopathy; fifth disease shows 'slapped cheeks'.
Answer
Roseola infantum (Exanthem subitum).
Why not the others: Measles rash appears while fever is high and child is toxic; rubella has prominent lymphadenopathy; parvovirus B19 causes slapped cheeks.
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