What is the difference between herpetic pharyngitis and hand, foot and mouth disease in children?

Both herpetic pharyngitis and hand, foot and mouth disease are caused by enterovirus, but herpetic pharyngitis mainly manifests as pharyngeal herpes and ulcers, while hand, foot and mouth disease is accompanied by rashes on the hands, feet and buttocks in addition to oral lesions. Treatment requires symptomatic treatment. Mild cases can be treated at home, while severe cases require timely medical treatment.

1. The main symptoms of herpetic pharyngitis are herpes and ulcers in the throat, accompanied by fever and sore throat, and generally no rash. In addition to oral herpes and ulcers, hand, foot and mouth disease also causes rashes or herpes on the hands, feet, and buttocks, and some children may have fever. Both are caused by enterovirus, but the specific virus subtypes may be different.

2. The treatment of herpetic pharyngitis is mainly symptomatic. Use antipyretic drugs such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to control body temperature. Oral herpes can use compound chlorhexidine gargle or Kangfuxin liquid to relieve pain. The diet is mainly liquid or semi-liquid, and irritating foods should be avoided. For severe cases, hospitalization is required, and antiviral drugs such as acyclovir are used when necessary.

3. The treatment of hand, foot and mouth disease also requires symptomatic treatment. Use antipyretic drugs to control body temperature. For oral herpes, use Kangfuxin liquid or Kaihoujian spray to relieve pain. For skin rashes, apply calamine lotion and avoid scratching. The diet should be light and easy to digest. Severe cases require hospitalization, and immunoglobulin or antiviral drugs should be used if necessary.

4. Preventive measures include maintaining good personal hygiene habits, washing hands frequently, and avoiding close contact with sick children. Pay attention to food hygiene and avoid eating raw and cold food. Keep indoor air circulating and regularly disinfect toys, tableware and other items. Vaccination with EV71 vaccine can effectively prevent severe cases of hand, foot and mouth disease.

The difference between herpetic pharyngitis and hand, foot and mouth disease lies in their different clinical manifestations. Treatment for both diseases should be based on symptoms, and severe cases require prompt medical treatment. Maintaining good personal hygiene and dietary hygiene can help prevent the occurrence of these two diseases.