Hand - foot - mouth disease

Alternative names:

Coxsackievirus infection

Definition:

A viral infection that usually begins in the throat. Itis caused by the Coxsackievirus.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The throat, tonsils, hands, feet, and diaper area are affectedby a rash with blisters caused by infection with the Coxsackievirus.The infection affects young children from 2 weeks to 3 years old mostcommonly. The outbreaks occur most often in the spring and fall. Thisis usually a mild illness with the rash healing in 5 to 7 days.

Prevention:

Avoid contact with people with known illness.

Symptoms:

* fever

* sore throat

* blisters or ulcers in the throat and mouth

* headache

* a rash with blisters on hands, feet and diaperarea

* loss of appetite

Signs and tests:

A physical examination and history of recent illness areusually sufficient to diagnose hand, foot, and mouth disease.

Treatment:

There is no specific treatment for the infection other thansymptomatic relief of symptoms.

Treatment with antibiotics is not effective. Acetaminophencan be used to treat fever. Aspirin should not be used in viral illnessesin children.

Salt water mouth rinses (1/2 teaspoon of salt to 1 glassof warm water) may be soothing if the child is able to rinse without swallowing.Ensure an adequate fluid intake because swallowing may be painful.Extra fluid is needed when a fever is present.

Expectations (prognosis):

Generally, complete recovery occurs in 5 to 7 days.

Complications:

* possible convulsions with high fever (febrileseizures)

* possible nervous system infection (such as viral meningitisor encephalitis)

Calling your health care provider:

Apply home treatment and call the health care provider ifthere are signs of complications such as pain in neck or arms and legs. Othertimes to call include when a high fever is not reduced by medication,signs of dehydration occur such as dry skin and mucus membranes, weight loss,irritability, lethargy, decreased or dark urine.

Emergency symptoms include convulsions.

Dr. Song's Oral Medicine Forum