Pediatrics: Fifth's Disease

Fifth's disease is aptly named as it was the fifth rash that was discovered. It is a very contagious condition characterized by a rash that has a "slapped cheek" appearance on the face and sometimes a lacey pink rash on the torso. It is important to note that fifth's disease is well tolerated in children but can be quite dangerous to mothers in their first trimester of pregnancy. It has been known(albeit rarely) to cause miscarriage or fetal death. So any pregnant mother in her first trimester who becomes exposed should alert her doctor immediately. Children who get it will get fussy for a day or two prior to the onset of the rash and then be right back to normal shortly thereafter.

This tidbit brought to you by Jennifer Walker RN BSN pediatric nurse, parenting consultant and co-founder of momsoncall.com where you can find more information about "what's going around" in pediatric circles.