Question

The school nurse notes that the child has a rash and suspects that it is caused by erythema infectiosum (fifth disease). The nurse bases this determination on the observation that the rash results in:

a) Small, fluid-filled vesicles
b) Red, macular rash on the cheeks
c) Raised, itchy wheals
d) Circular, scaly lesions

Answer 1

The nurse suspects the rash is caused by fifth disease due to the red, macular rash on the cheeks, which is typical for this infection.

Step-by-step explanation:

The school nurse suspects the distinctive rash caused by erythema infectiosum (fifth disease) based on the observation of a red, macular rash on the cheeks, often described as a "slapped cheek" appearance. Fifth disease is caused by parvovirus B19 and the rash is a critical factor in its diagnosis. The rash commonly appears on the face and may later spread to other parts of the body, evolving to a lacy pattern as it fades. This is different from impetigo, which features small, fluid-filled vesicles that become crusted sores, or from allergic reactions that might present as raised, itchy wheals.