A throat infection caused by streptococci bacteria - often referred to as strep throat - can trigger severe illness. When a characteristic skin rash accompanies strep throat, the illness is called scarlet fever.
Most people contract scarlet fever by being exposed to someone with a streptococcal infection. The bacteria begin to grow in the throat, on the tonsils, or in the area where the tonsils once were if they have been removed. Three to five days after exposure to the bacteria, physical signs of sore throat as well as generalized aches and pains appear. Fever as high as 104-106 [degrees] F may be present. It is not uncommon for a person to suffer from nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Cough, headache, runny nose, and weakness quite often are present.
The infected person's throat will be "boiled-lobster" fed and many have white or off-white spots in the back of the throat and on the tonsils. The mucous membranes on the sides of the mouth may appear red and swollen with milk-white patches. The infected person also will note swollen lymph glands around the jaw and neck. These nodes usually are tender to manipulation and can be found at the angle of the jaw.
A fine, red "sandpaper like" rash appears on the body. face, and extremities one to five days after the onset of illness. It tends to be noted first on the neck and upper chest, then quickly spreads over the rest of the body. The face often appears flushed with the rash, though the areas around the mouth and nose are characteristically free of it. Usually four to seven days after the rash appears, it begins to fade. The skin may become scaley and slough off in tiny flakes in many areas where the rash has been. The rash does not itch at first, but may start to when the sloughing begins.
According to the Alliant Health System, Louisville, Ky., the earlier treatment begins, the less chance there is of developing further side effects. Fortunately for patients, scarlet fever responds well to modern antibiotics such as penicillin. Within two to three days after starting antibiotics, an infected person usually will begin to feel better. Children may go back to school when the rash fades and they no longer have a fever.
COPYRIGHT 1994 Society for the Advancement of Education
COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale Group
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