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Scarlet fever — MRCPCH FOP MCQ

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EasyInfectious diseasesScarlet feverMRCPCH FOP

A 6-year-old girl has fever, sore throat, flushed cheeks and a fine sandpaper rash over the trunk. She has a strawberry tongue and tender anterior cervical nodes. What is the most appropriate management?

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

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Correct answer: D — Oral phenoxymethylpenicillin and public health advice

The sandpaper rash, strawberry tongue and pharyngitis are typical of scarlet fever, for which penicillin reduces complications and transmission. A viral exanthem is less likely with the classic throat findings and rash texture. Echocardiography is not required before treating uncomplicated scarlet fever. The pearl is that children should stay away from school or nursery until 24 hours after starting antibiotics.

Reference: NICE CKS Scarlet fever; UKHSA guidance