Herpangina
Herpangina Causes
Herpangina is caused by a virus, the most common of which are coxsackie virus and echovirus.
Herpangina Definition
Herpangina is the name of a painful mouth infection, typically with a fever. Even though the name sounds like herpes, almost all of the many viruses that cause it are coxsackieviruses or other enteroviruses and not herpesvirus.
Herpangina Diagnosis
The diagnosis is usually made based on the history and physical exam. Because the syndrome is so specific, the diagnosis can be quite obvious.
Herpangina Symptoms and Signs
This illness starts abruptly, typically with a fever. The fever is often high, and children usually lose their sparkle (and appetite) a few hours before the fever begins. The mouth sores typically begin at the same time as the fever or shortly afterward. Children have an average of about five blisters in the mouth. These blisters are surrounded by red rings and can appear in the back of the throat, on the roof of the mouth, on the tonsils, on the uvula, inside the cheeks, or on the tongue. The blisters may start as small red bumps and may develop to become ulcers after the blister stage.
Herpangina Treatment
Antibiotics are not effective against herpangina. The important issues are getting children plenty of fluids, relieving their pain, and treating their other symptoms as needed.