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Measles (Rubeola), Pediatric

Jeffrey S. Gerber, MD, PhD Reviewed 10/2018
 


BASICS

DESCRIPTION

  • An exanthematous disease that has a relatively predictable course, making clinical diagnosis possible

  • Because it is rare, cases are often initially misdiagnosed as a nonspecific viral...

DIAGNOSIS

  • Case definition from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) includes the following:

    • Generalized rash lasting ≥3 days

    • A temperature of ≥38.3°C (101°F)

    • Cough, coryza, or conjunctivi...

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

  • No specific therapy; supportive care

  • Ribavirin is active in vitro but not approved by FDA for treatment of measles.

  • Vitamin A treatment of children with measles in developing c...

ONGOING CARE

FOLLOW-UP RECOMMENDATIONS

In uncomplicated measles infection, clinical improvement and fading of rash typically occur on the 3rd or 4th day. 

PROGNOSIS

  • Mortality in the modern outbreak of 19...

ADDITIONAL READING

  • American Academy of Pediatrics. Measles. In: Kimberlin DW, Brady MT, Jackson MA, et al, eds. Red Book: 2015 Report of the Committee on Infectious Diseases. 30th ed. Elk Grove Villa...

CODES

ICD9

  • 055.9 Measles without mention of complication

  • 055.2 Postmeasles otitis media

  • 055.1 Postmeasles pneumonia

  • 055.0 Postmeasles encephalitis

  • 055.79 Measles with other specified complications

ICD10

  • B05....

FAQ

  • Q: If a health care worker has had a natural measles infection or measles immunization, should one be concerned about infection following exposure?

  • A: Those persons born before 1957 who had wild-ty...

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