Friday, February, 10, 2012

Roseola

Table of Contents

Alternative Names

Exanthem subitum; Sixth disease


Treatment

There is no specific treatment. The disease usually gets better without complications.

Take steps to control a fever with acetaminophen (Tylenol) and cool sponge baths. If convulsions occur, call your health care provider, or go to the closest emergency room.


Support Groups


Expectations (prognosis)

Most children with roseola fully recover.


Complications
  • Aseptic meningitis (rare)
  • Encephalitis (rare)
  • Febrile seizure

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if your child:

  • Has a fever that does not go down with acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) and a warm bath
  • Continues to appear very sick
  • Acts irritable or lethargic

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if your child has convulsions.


Review Date: 11/02/2009
Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)