fièvre boutonneuse

fifth disease A mild disease occurring typically in children that is caused by parvovirus B-19. The characteristic symptoms of fifth disease include lowgrade fever, fatigue, a “slapped cheeks” rash, and a rash over the whole body. Transmission is by droplets in the air (respiratory secretions) or through blood. Some children with immunodeficiency (such as those with AIDS or leukemia) or with certain blood disorders (such as sickle cell anemia or hemolytic anemia) may become seriously ill with fifth disease including the development of anemia. About 80 percent of adults with fifth disease have joint aches and pains (arthritis), which may persist for months. Pregnant women who have not previously had fifth disease should avoid contact with patients who have it because parvovirus B-19 can infect a fetus prior to birth. Although no birth defects have been reported as a result of fifth disease, it can cause the death of an unborn fetus. This occurs in less than 5 percent of pregnant women who become infected with the virus. The odd name, fifth disease, comes from the prevaccination era, when this disease was often the fifth disease that a child contracted. Also known as erythema infectiosum.