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Fifth Disease Directory
Fifth disease is a viral infection that happens mostly in children and causes a distinctive rash on the face commonly known as "slapped cheek." It is caused by the human parvovirus B19. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about how fifth disease is contracted, what it looks like, how to treat it, and much more.
Medical Reference
Childhood Skin Problems
WebMD explains the symptoms, causes, and treatments for a number of skin conditions seen in young children, including cradle cap, roseola, and fifth disease.
The Basics on Fifth Disease
Learn about fifth disease, a contagious viral condition that's more common in kids than adults.
Treating Fifth Disease
WebMD explains how fifth disease is diagnosed.
Symptoms of Fifth Disease
Read about the symptoms of fifth disease, a contagious viral condition usually seen in children.
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Images of Childhood Skin Problems
Hives, ringworm, warts: just a few skin conditions often seen in babies and children. How can you recognize these common childhood conditions -- and is home treatment possible?
Picture of Erythema Infectiosum
Erythema infectiosum (fifth disease). Erythema infectiosum is a mild childhood disease that is caused by human parvovirus B19. This condition develops after a mean incubation period of 14 days. There are few if any prodromal symptoms. The rash evolves in three clinical stages. The first stage is characterized by the abrupt appearance of a bright-red malar blush. The appearance is so startling that it has been given the suggestive description of “slapped cheeks”. During the second stage, the facial rash begins to fade, and a maculopapular, urticarial, or morbilliform exanthem develops on the extremities and trunk. Pruritus may be present.