To conclude our 10 part series on flu symptoms that are common to other conditions we would like to highlight the characteristic symptoms of Scarlet Fever. Let’s begin by taking a look at the information on iTriage (available on iPhone, Android, or at http://www.iTriageHealth.com).
Scarlet Fever
Description
A disorder characterized by a rash covering most of the body, a strawberry-like appearance of the tongue and usually a high fever. The most common source of scarlet fever is strep throat (a bacterial infection of the throat). Scarlet fever is now relatively rare, and is most often seen in patients with ages 5-15.
Symptoms
Sore throat, fever, vomiting, rash on neck and chest, rough “sandpaper” feel to the skin, peeling of the skin (finger tips, toes, and groin), swollen red tongue (strawberry tongue), pastia’s lines (bright red color in the creases of the underarm and groin), chills, headache, generalized discomfort (malaise), abdominal pain, muscle aches.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. The streptoccocal bacteria can be identified with a antigen test or a culture.
Treatment
Antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and oral fluids can help relieve symptoms. Antibiotics are important since they help prevent rheumatic fever, the most feared complication of strep throat and scarlet fever.
As you can see the most important distinction between scarlet fever and the flu is the associated rash. Both disorders have high fevers but a rash is uncommon with the flu. Unlike hand foot and mouth disease that we reviewed earlier in the week the rash in scarlet fever is a rough sandpaper type of rash that is found on the neck and chest rather than the palms and feet. Patients can also experience a red discoloration of the tongue called a “strawberry tongue”. Pictures of the rash and the strawberry tongue can be found on iTriage.
Unlike the flu antibiotics are required for Scarlet fever treatment and an emergency department, urgent care clinic and your primary care doctor are the appropriate treatment facilities. You can use iTriage to find any of these healthcare providers in the United States.
We here at iTriage hope our examination of the flu and the other top ten causes of a fever were helpful. As always, do not hesitate to send us your questions or comments in the comment box below.
