From the Research
No, the hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) rash is not concurrent with the recovery phase but typically appears during the active phase of the illness. The rash usually develops 1-2 days after the initial symptoms of fever, sore throat, and malaise begin. HFMD rash characteristically appears as small red spots that develop into blisters on the hands, feet, mouth, and sometimes buttocks and genitals. The rash is most prominent during the peak of the illness and may last about 7-10 days before gradually resolving. Recovery begins as the rash and other symptoms start to improve. The illness is caused primarily by enteroviruses, most commonly Coxsackievirus A16 and Enterovirus 71, which replicate in the gastrointestinal tract before spreading to other tissues. According to the most recent study 1, treatment is supportive, focusing on pain relief with acetaminophen or ibuprofen, maintaining hydration, and using topical oral anesthetics for mouth sores if needed. Most cases resolve completely within 7-10 days without specific antiviral treatment.
Key Points
- HFMD is a viral illness commonly seen in children under 5 years of age, characterized by typical manifestations such as oral lesions and rashes on the hands and feet 2.
- The rash usually develops 1-2 days after the initial symptoms of fever, sore throat, and malaise begin 3.
- HFMD rash characteristically appears as small red spots that develop into blisters on the hands, feet, mouth, and sometimes buttocks and genitals.
- The rash is most prominent during the peak of the illness and may last about 7-10 days before gradually resolving 4.
- Recovery begins as the rash and other symptoms start to improve.
- The illness is caused primarily by enteroviruses, most commonly Coxsackievirus A16 and Enterovirus 71, which replicate in the gastrointestinal tract before spreading to other tissues 5.
Clinical Considerations
- Clinicians must identify the wide range of cutaneous and mucosal alterations caused by atypical HFMD 5.
- A systemic, high-quality overview of atypical HFMD is needed for advances in better strategies for clinical diagnosis and treatment.
- Recognition of the distinguishing features of atypical HFMD is vital for an accurate and timely diagnosis, as is initiating appropriate laboratory evaluation and supportive care.