What is scarlet fever (scarlatina)?

Scarlet fever is a Strep throat infection with a rash. A toxin produced by some Strep germs causes the rash. Scarlet fever is no more dangerous than Strep throat without a rash.

Scarlet fever is an illness that most often occurs in children between the ages of 2 and 10 who have recently had strep throat. It is caused by a poison (toxin) released by some types of strep bacteria.

The most noticeable symptom of scarlet fever is a rough, red rash that feels like sandpaper. The rash begins on the chest and abdomen and spreads over the rest of the body within 1 to 2 days. The rash and redness are more apparent in skin folds, especially in the groin, armpits, and elbow creases. Fever and a sore throat usually develop before the rash appears.

Scarlet fever and the strep infection that causes it are treated with antibiotics. The rash itself is not contagious and does not need treatment. Most cases of scarlet fever can be cured without the development of permanent complications.

Scarlet fever, or scarlatina, is a disease caused by the bacteria known as group A streptococcus or Streptococcus pyogenes, the same bacterium that causes strep throat. Scarlet fever is characterized by a rash.

Individuals who develop scarlet fever are usually under the age of 18, and are generally between the ages of five and 15. Adults rarely become infected with scarlet fever. Approximately 10% of individuals who become infected with group A streptococcus develop scarlet fever. Ethnicity and gender do not appear to be risk factors for scarlet fever.

If treated with antibiotics, children will usually make a full recovery in approximately 10 days. However, swollen glands and swollen tonsils may last for a few weeks. Rare but serious complications may result from untreated scarlet fever, such as rheumatic fever.

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