Which statement correctly describes fifth disease?

Which statement correctly describes fifth disease?

• A. It is caused by coxsackievirus and requires antiviral therapy
• B. It is caused by measles and is highly contagious
• C. It is caused by parvovirus B19 and has no specific treatment
• D. It is caused by roseola and resolves with time without treatment

Answer: (C)

Fifth disease, or erythema infectiosum, is caused by Parvovirus B19. In children it typically starts with a bright red, slapped-cheek facial rash that may be followed by a lacy, reticular rash on the trunk and limbs. The illness is usually mild and self-limited, and there is no specific antiviral therapy or vaccine for Parvovirus B19. Management is supportive—fever/pain relief as needed, fluids, and rest. In rare situations, such as in kids with underlying hemolytic disorders (like sickle cell disease), the virus can trigger an aplastic crisis requiring closer monitoring or transfusion; in pregnancy, maternal infection can affect the fetus, so counseling and monitoring may be indicated. The other statements misidentify the causative virus or imply antiviral therapy, which is not how fifth disease is managed.

Fifth disease, or erythema infectiosum, is caused by Parvovirus B19. In children it typically starts with a bright red, slapped-cheek facial rash that may be followed by a lacy, reticular rash on the trunk and limbs. The illness is usually mild and self-limited, and there is no specific antiviral therapy or vaccine for Parvovirus B19. Management is supportive—fever/pain relief as needed, fluids, and rest. In rare situations, such as in kids with underlying hemolytic disorders (like sickle cell disease), the virus can trigger an aplastic crisis requiring closer monitoring or transfusion; in pregnancy, maternal infection can affect the fetus, so counseling and monitoring may be indicated. The other statements misidentify the causative virus or imply antiviral therapy, which is not how fifth disease is managed.