Herpangina

Causes

Herpangina is a common childhood infection. It is most often seen in children ages 3 - 10, but it can occur in any age group.

It is typically caused by Coxsackie group A viruses. These viruses are contagious. Your child is at risk for herpangina if someone at school or home has the illness.

Symptoms

• Fever
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Sore throat, or painful swallowing
• Ulcers in the mouth and throat, and similar sores on the feet, hands, and buttocks

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

Tests are not normally necessary.Your doctor can usually diagnose this condition by performing a physical exam and asking questions about the child's symptoms and medical history.

Treatment

The symptoms are treated as necessary:

• Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) by mouth for fever and discomfort as the doctor recommends.
• Increase fluid intake, especially cold milk products. Gargle with cool water or try eating popsicles. Avoid hot beverages and citrus fruits.
• Eat a non-irritating diet. (Cold milk products, including ice cream, are often the best choices during herpangina infection. Fruit juices are too acidic and tend to irritate the mouth sores.) Avoid spicy, fried, or hot foods.
• Use topical anesthetics for the mouth (these may contain benzocaine or xylocaine and are usually not required).

Outlook (Prognosis)

The illness normally clears up within a week.

Possible Complications

Dehydration is the most common complication, but it can be treated by your doctor.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if:

• Fever, sore throat, or mouth sores last for more than 5 days
• Your child is having trouble drinking liquids or looks dehydrated
• Fever becomes very high or does not go away

Prevention

Good handwashing practices can help prevent the spread of the viruses that lead to this infection.

References

Abzug MJ. Nonpolio enteroviruses. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 19th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 242.

Update Date: 8/2/2011

Updated by: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.