The difference between herpetic pharyngitis and hand, foot and mouth disease in children

The difference between herpangina and hand, foot and mouth disease in children lies in the cause, symptoms, course of disease and location of rash. Although both are caused by enterovirus infection, it is important to identify their characteristics for correct treatment.

1 Cause:

Herpangina is mainly caused by Coxsackievirus group A and is common in children aged 6 months to 12 years.

Hand, foot and mouth disease is mostly caused by Coxsackievirus A16 or enterovirus 71 EV71, which is highly contagious and can cause large-scale epidemics.

2 Symptoms:

Herpetic pharyngitis: The initial stage of the disease is characterized by sudden high fever up to 39-40℃, and small blisters or ulcers can be seen in the soft palate, uvula, uvula and pharyngeal area, usually without rash.

Hand, foot and mouth disease: In addition to fever, the main symptom is a rash distributed on the palms, soles of the feet, buttocks and knees. At the same time, herpes-like symptoms may also appear in the oral mucosa.

3. Course of disease:

Herpangina has a relatively short course and usually resolves within 3-5 days.

Hand, foot and mouth disease can last for a long time, up to 7 days or even longer. In severe cases, especially those infected with EV71, it may cause complications such as encephalitis and myocarditis.

4. Treatment methods:

The treatment of herpangina and hand, foot and mouth disease is mainly symptomatic, mainly including antipyretic, analgesic and prevention of secondary infection.

Drug treatment: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen for fever, topical sprays such as oral mucosal sprays to improve pain.

Dietary adjustment: Choose warm, cool, and easily digestible liquid foods such as rice soup and porridge, and avoid sour, spicy, or overheated irritating foods.

Care advice: Pay attention to oral hygiene, drink plenty of water, and avoid staying in areas with high incidence of the virus.

Although herpetic pharyngitis and hand, foot and mouth disease have similar symptoms, they can be distinguished by paying attention to the distribution of the rash and the characteristics of the symptoms. If you are unsure of the condition or the symptoms are severe, you should seek medical attention immediately. Parents need to take preventive measures to avoid cross infection.