What are the symptoms of scarlet fever?

Generally, the main symptoms of scarlet fever include fever, pharyngitis, rash, strawberry tongue, and Pastia's lines. If experiencing any discomfort, it is recommended to seek timely diagnosis and treatment at a qualified hospital. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Fever

Scarlet fever is caused by infection with group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus. After invading the human body, the bacteria release toxins that stimulate the body's temperature-regulating center, leading to fever. The patient's body temperature is often above 38.5°C, frequently accompanied by chills, headache, and general malaise. The duration of fever typically lasts 1 to 7 days.

2. Pharyngitis

The bacteria attack the mucous membranes of the throat, causing localized inflammation and resulting in pharyngitis. Patients experience significant throat pain, which worsens during swallowing. Examination reveals pharyngeal congestion and swelling, with possible gray-white or yellowish purulent secretions on the tonsils.

3. Rash

Following infection, the erythematous toxin produced by the bacteria acts on the skin, causing dilation and congestion of cutaneous capillaries, leading to the appearance of a rash. The rash typically appears within 24 hours after the onset of fever, initially appearing behind the ears, on the neck, and upper chest, gradually spreading to the entire body. It presents as diffuse, congestive, pinpoint-sized papules that fade upon pressure, often accompanied by itching. The rash generally lasts 4 to 7 days before fading, followed by skin desquamation.

4. Strawberry Tongue

Toxins affect the tongue's mucosa, causing congestion and swelling, with enlarged and reddened papillae. Initially, the tongue surface is covered with a white coating. After the coating sheds, the swollen papillae become visible, resembling a strawberry—referred to as "strawberry tongue." Around the third to fourth day of illness, the coating gradually peels off, leaving a smooth, glossy, and reddened tongue surface known as "raspberry tongue."

5. Pastia's Lines

In skin folds such as the armpits, elbow creases, and groin areas, the rash is densely distributed, with more pronounced capillary dilation, forming purplish-red lines called Pastia's lines. This is one of the characteristic manifestations of the scarlet fever rash.

In addition, some patients may also experience swollen cervical lymph nodes and joint pain. During the illness, patients should rest adequately, maintain good oral hygiene, and consume bland, easily digestible liquid or semi-liquid foods, avoiding spicy or irritating foods. It is essential to follow medical advice and complete a full course of appropriate antibiotic treatment to prevent worsening of the condition or complications.