Exanthem Subitum: This is also another name for Roseola. This is an infection caused by a virus that usually affects young children and infants. It consists of high fever, and red-pinkish skin rash. This is mostly seen in children ages 3 mths to 4 yrs and most common in those 6 months to 1 year. It is triggered by a virus HHV-6. The time from exposure and the beginning of symptoms is 5 to 15 days.

Symptoms include irritability, eye redness, sore throat, runny nose; high fever develops quickly and can reach 105 degrees Fahrenheit and last up to 7 days.

Approximately 2-4 days after being sick, the fever lowers and the rash develops. This rash normally: first seen on middle of the body, spreading to the legs, arms, face and neck, rose or pink colored, small sores that are slightly raised.

This rash continues from a few hours to 2 to 3 days. It commonly does not itch. The child will have lymph nodes that are swollen in the back of the scalp or the neck.

There is no treatment for this disorder. The disease gets better on its own with no complications.

Tylenol or acetaminophen and cold sponge baths may help reduce the fever. Many children can have seizures due to the high fevers. If this happens, call your physician or go to the nearest emergency room.