Medical Encyclopedia

 

Medical Encyclopedia

Other encyclopedia topics:  A-Ag  Ah-Ap  Aq-Az  B-Bk  Bl-Bz  C-Cg  Ch-Co  Cp-Cz  D-Di  Dj-Dz  E-Ep  Eq-Ez  F  G  H-Hf  Hg-Hz  I-In  Io-Iz  J  K  L-Ln  Lo-Lz  M-Mf  Mg-Mz  N  O  P-Pl  Pm-Pz  Q  R  S-Sh  Si-Sp  Sq-Sz  T-Tn  To-Tz  U  V  W  X  Y  Z  0-9 

Herpangina

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Throat anatomy
Throat anatomy
Mouth anatomy
Mouth anatomy

Definition    Return to top

Herpangina is a viral illness in which ulcers and lesions (sores) form inside the mouth, and there is sore throat and fever.

See also: Hand, foot, and mouth disease

Causes    Return to top

Herpangina is typically caused by Coxsackie group A viruses.

The number of cases of herpangina is unknown, but it is a common childhood infection. It is most often seen in children ages 3 - 10, but it can occur in any age group. Cases of herpangina at school or in the neighborhood increase the chances that your child will develop the illness.

Symptoms    Return to top

The ulcers usually have a white to whitish-gray base and a red border. They may be very painful. Generally, there are only a few sores.

Exams and Tests    Return to top

Tests are not normally necessary. Diagnosis can usually be made from the history and physical examination.

Treatment    Return to top

The symptoms are treated as necessary:

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

The illness normally clears up within a week.

Possible Complications    Return to top

There are usually no complications.

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call your health care provider if:

Prevention    Return to top

Coxsackie virus is transmitted by contamination with feces, which means you can catch the virus by touching your mouth or eating without thoroughly washing your hands. Good handwashing practices can help prevent transmitting most viruses.

Being aware of other cases of herpangina in your neighborhood or school may allow earlier diagnosis.

Update Date: 11/12/2007

Updated by: Rachel A. Lewis, MD, FAAP, Columbia University Pediatric Family Practice, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M. Logo

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2009, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.