-IBIS-1.5.0-
tx
cutaneous system
rubella
diagnoses
definition and etiology
definition:
a contagious exanthematous disease, usually with mild symptoms but which may result in abortion, stillbirth, or congenital defects in infants born to mothers infected in the early months of pregnancy
etiology:
The disease is caused by an RNA virus and is spread via airborne transmission through droplets or close contact. Infected persons can transmit the disease from a week before the rash occurs until a week after it fades. Immunity is usually lifelong after an infection.
signs and symptoms
signs and symptoms: prodrome
malaise and lymphadenopathy
swelling of lymph glands, especially about the throat and neck
rash similar to measles, but less extensive and quicker to fade
flushed face
reddened throat and mouth, usually without sore throat; may start with red spots
transient testicular pain may be noted in males
note that only 25-50% of patients will be symptomatic
lab findings:
hemagglutination inhibition testing and complement fixation tests available for screening of pregnant women
change in HAI titer from acute to convalescent useful in establishing a diagnosis, especially if exposed to a pregnant woman
course and prognosis
Course includes a 14-21 day incubation period, and a 1-5 day prodrome. The rash, which lasts about 3 days, begins about the face and neck and spreads to the rest of the body. The spots quickly become pinpoint and fade. The disease is generally considered self-limiting and is often nearly over by the time the diagnosis is confirmed. Polyarthritis may occasionally present as a complication.
differential diagnosis
measles
scarlet fever
syphilis
drug reaction
mononucleosis
echovirus
coxsackie virus
adenovirus
footnotes