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Fifth disease

Fifth disease

Overview

Fifth disease is an acute viral disease characterized by mild symptoms and a blotchy rash beginning on the cheeks and spreading to the extremities.

Review Date 8/5/2023

Updated by: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.