Scarlet fever

Caused by GAS
Prodrome of fever, sore throat, vomiting, abd pain followed by rash 1-2d later
Rash
- Enanthem
  - Tonsils/pharynx are red and covered w/ exudate
  - Tongue may have initial exudate followed by erythema ("strawberry tongue)
  - Soft palate have bright-red spots
- Exanthem
  - Starts on neck, axillae, groin, spreads to trunk and extremities
  - Red, finely punctate, sandpaper feel
  - Desquamation follows
Treatment (to reduce rheumatic fever / nephritis)
- Penicillin VK 50mg/kg BID x 10d OR amoxicillin 40mg/kg/d in 2 divided doses x10d
- If pen allergic: Azithromycin 10mg/kg on day 1, 5mg/g days 2-5

See Also