What is Measles, Rubella Unilateral Laterothoracic Exanthema? How is it Treated? : Childhood Rash Diseases


Some rash diseases that are common in children are an important issue for both parents and healthcare professionals. In this article, we will provide understandable information about measles, rubella and the lesser-known unilateral laterothoracic exanthema.

What is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that starts with high fever, fatigue, cough, runny nose and red eyes. Although it is usually seen in childhood, it can occur at any age in unvaccinated individuals.
How is it transmitted?
Measles is transmitted through droplets that sick people cough or sneeze into the air. The virus can remain suspended in the air for hours and can easily be transmitted to others.

What are the symptoms?

High fever up to 39-40°C,
Red eyes and sensitivity to light (conjunctivitis),
Runny nose and cough,
White spots in the mouth (Koplik spots),
Red rashes spreading throughout the body.
Is There a Treatment?
There is no specific medication for measles. The disease usually goes away on its own within 7-10 days. It may be necessary to drink plenty of fluids, rest and use medication with a doctor's recommendation to control the fever. However, the most effective method of protection is the measles vaccine.

What is Rubella?
Rubella is a viral infection similar to measles but usually milder. Infected people experience the disease with a mild fever, sore throat and widespread pink rashes on the body.

Who is at Risk?
Rubella is dangerous for pregnant women. Because rubella contracted during pregnancy can cause congenital abnormalities in the baby. Therefore, it is important for women planning to get their immunity checked.

How is it transmitted?
Rubella can be transmitted through close contact with sick people or through viruses spread through the air.

Treatment and Protection
There is no specific treatment for rubella either. Supportive care is applied to relieve the symptoms. The best protection method is the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.

What is Unilateral Laterothoracic Exanthema?
This disease is rarer than measles or rubella and manifests itself in children with a mild fever and a rash spreading on one side of the body.

Symptoms:

Redness starting on one side of the body and expanding,
Mild itching and rashes,
Mild fever and feeling of weakness.
How is it transmitted?
Although the exact cause of this disease is not known exactly, it is thought to be related to viral infections.

Is Treatment Required?
Since it is a mild disease, it usually goes away on its own. Moisturizing creams or mild cortisone ointments can be used to reduce itching with the doctor's recommendation.

Conclusion
Childhood rash diseases such as measles, rubella and unilateral laterothoracic exanthema are usually mild, but can sometimes lead to serious complications. Therefore, it is very important to administer childhood vaccinations completely and on time. In suspicious cases, the best approach is to consult a health care professional without delay.