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Hand, foot and mouth disease — DCH MCQ

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EasyCommon childhood illnessesHand, foot and mouth diseaseDCH

A 2-year-old boy has fever, reduced appetite and small vesicles on his palms, soles and inside the mouth. He is drinking small amounts, has normal capillary refill and passes urine. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: E — Hand, foot and mouth disease

Hand, foot and mouth disease is suggested by oral lesions with vesicles on palms and soles in a well hydrated toddler. Herpetic gingivostomatitis can cause painful oral ulcers and fever, but palm and sole lesions point towards enterovirus infection. The pearl is that hydration advice and safety netting are usually more important than medication.

Reference: NICE CKS Hand foot and mouth disease