Paediatrics

Scarlet Fever

A toxin-mediated group A streptococcal infection causing fever, sore throat, a fine sandpaper rash and strawberry tongue, treated with antibiotics and public-health exclusion.

Definition

Scarlet fever is a toxin-mediated illness caused by group A streptococcus, usually accompanying streptococcal pharyngitis.

First principles

The rash is a toxin effect of group A streptococcus

Scarlet fever is usually associated with group A streptococcal pharyngitis. Streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxins produce the diffuse fine erythematous rash, while the pharyngeal infection produces fever, sore throat and cervical lymphadenopathy.

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