Page Contents
OVERVIEW
Measles (Rubeola) is a viral illness caused by the measles virus.
WHAT MAKES US SUSPECT IT?
Risk Factors:
Lack of MMR immunization.
Initial Presentation:
- Classic presentation (especially on exams): conjunctivitis, coryza, cough & Koplik spots
- Other: fever, rash
History Of Present Illness:
The rash typically begins on the face and spreads lower on the body. Lasts about a week.
Physical Exam:
Dermatological exam:
- Maculopapular rash that can be generalized.
- Spares the palms/soles of the feet.
CLINICAL WORKUP
TREATMENT
Supportive measures
Vitamin A has been shown to reduce mortality/morbidity in patients with severe measles.
WHAT ELSE ARE WE WORRIED ABOUT?
Primary measles pneumonia can occur
Secondary bacterial infections such as pneumonia or otitis media
Neurological complications:
- Encephalitis (can occur within days)
- Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (occurs within weeks)
- Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (within years).
WAS THERE A WAY TO PREVENT IT?
The live attenuated measles vaccine (MMR)
ARCHIVE OF STANDARDIZED EXAM QUESTIONS
This archive compiles standardized exam questions that relate to this topic.
Page Updated: 11.19.2016