-IBIS-1.5.0-
tx
cutaneous system
rubella
diagnoses

definition and etiology

definition:
a contagious exanthematous disease, usually with mild symptoms but which may result in abortion, stillbirth, or congenital defects in infants born to mothers infected in the early months of pregnancy

etiology:
The disease is caused by an RNA virus and is spread via airborne transmission through droplets or close contact. Infected persons can transmit the disease from a week before the rash occurs until a week after it fades. Immunity is usually lifelong after an infection.

signs and symptoms

signs and symptoms: prodrome
• malaise and lymphadenopathy
• swelling of lymph glands, especially about the throat and neck
• rash similar to measles, but less extensive and quicker to fade
• flushed face
• reddened throat and mouth, usually without sore throat; may start with red spots
• transient testicular pain may be noted in males

• note that only 25-50% of patients will be symptomatic

lab findings:
• hemagglutination inhibition testing and complement fixation tests available for screening of pregnant women
• change in HAI titer from acute to convalescent useful in establishing a diagnosis, especially if exposed to a pregnant woman

course and prognosis

Course includes a 14-21 day incubation period, and a 1-5 day prodrome. The rash, which lasts about 3 days, begins about the face and neck and spreads to the rest of the body. The spots quickly become pinpoint and fade. The disease is generally considered self-limiting and is often nearly over by the time the diagnosis is confirmed. Polyarthritis may occasionally present as a complication.

differential diagnosis

• measles
• scarlet fever
• syphilis
• drug reaction
• mononucleosis
• echovirus
• coxsackie virus
• adenovirus


footnotes