Megaloerythema is a typical childhood skin disease of viral origin. It usually has a good prognosis.
It is caused by a virus called parvovirus B19. The virus is spread by contact with secretions (saliva, mucus). It has an incubation period of 1-2 weeks before symptoms appear.
The most common symptoms are: redness of both cheeks, redness/eruption of the skin on the trunk and extremities (in the form of "lace"), rash on hands and feet in the form of "gloves and socks", fever, headache and mucus. In rare cases it causes anemia, bleeding and a decrease in white blood cells.
Diagnosis is usually clinical, by interview and physical examination.
Symptoms should be treated with analgesics and/or antipyretics. Prognosis is usually good with no lasting effects. Parvovirus B19 infection is more dangerous for the developing fetus, so contact between infected patients and pregnant women should be avoided.
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