Scarlet Fever
Scarlet fever is a rash caused by a bacterial infection of the Gastrointestinal tract (GAS). The classic "sandpaper" rash is caused by an exotoxin produced by GAS bacteria. These erythrogenic toxins cause a local inflammatory response in the skin. The rash is characterized by a neutrophilic infiltrate, spongiosis, and parakeratosis.
Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection
Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection that causes a rash and a fever. It is caused by the same bacteria that causes strep throat. It is associated with the colder weather of winter and spring. The infection can also cause ear infections, sinusitis, and pneumonia. There is no cure for scarlet fever, but it is important to limit exposure to infected individuals. During the illness, children should be kept at home and out of school.
When you suspect that your child has scarlet fever, you can take the child to a doctor for a strep test. Treatment will include antibiotics to kill the bacteria and help the body fight off the infection. You should make sure to follow the full course of antibiotics. This will help the child recover more quickly and prevent serious health problems later.
It is spread by contact with droplets
Infected droplets from the affected person's throat or mouth can carry bacteria that cause scarlet fever. These bacteria can also cause strep throat and school sores. When these bacteria infect the skin, they release toxins that cause a rash and swelling. These toxins are spread through the air when droplets are in contact with other people. The bacteria in these droplets can then infect nearby people. The symptoms of scarlet fever are usually mild to moderate, but may progress to more serious symptoms.
Group A strep bacteria are responsible for scarlet fever. These bacteria are easily transmitted by droplets in the air, direct contact with an infected person's skin, or by using contaminated objects. Although many bacteria and viruses cause a sore throat or red rash, the rapid strep test can identify group A strep bacteria, which can lead to scarlet fever. If the test shows that the virus is present, an antibiotic will be prescribed.
It is treated with antibiotics
Antibiotics are an essential part of the treatment process for scarlet fever. They are extremely effective against the bacteria that cause this condition. They are usually given in a 10-day course. The most common antibiotics prescribed for scarlet fever include amoxicillin and penicillin. Patients who are allergic to penicillin may be given an alternative antibiotic, such as erythromycin. Antibiotics are effective against group A streptococci, which cause scarlet fever.
A rapid antigen detection test (RADT) can be used to confirm the diagnosis of scarlet fever if the patient also has pharyngitis. The RADT has high sensitivity and specificity for group A strep, but throat cultures are the gold standard. In cases where RADT is negative, clinicians should follow up with a throat culture. If the results of the RADT are positive, antibiotics should be initiated.
It can lead to rheumatic fever
Although scarlet fever and strep throat aren't the same thing, a scarlet fever infection can lead to rheumatic fever if left untreated. Some people are more susceptible to rheumatic fever than others, and some strains of the strep bacteria are more likely to cause it. Other environmental factors such as poor sanitation or overcrowding may also increase a person's risk. Symptoms may last for months, and in some cases, rheumatic fever can result in long-term complications.
The symptoms and signs of rheumatic fever are similar to those of strep throat. Doctors will look for inflammation, heart abnormalities, and rashes. They may recommend an antibiotic course or a course of oral medication to treat the underlying bacterial infection.
It affects the heart and kidneys
The typical symptoms of scarlet fever include a characteristic red raised rash that feels like coarse sandpaper. The rash can also be accompanied by a fever, sore throat, and enlarged, tender lymph nodes. Children may also have a brightly colored tongue with white patches. The rash usually begins on the face and spreads to the chest and arms, but not the palms of the hands. The rash is especially intense in folds of the skin.
To make a proper diagnosis of scarlet fever, your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about your child's health history. They may also look at your child's rash to determine if it's a different kind of rash. In order to rule out strep throat as the cause of scarlet fever, your healthcare provider may perform a throat swab. If the swab is positive, a rapid strep test may be performed. The sample may also be sent to a laboratory for culture.
