herpangina

This term refers to a stomatitis (inflamation of the mouth, stoma) caused by a strain of the Coxsackie virus. It is differentiated in clinical practice from type I Herpes infection - the cold sore virus - by the fact that the ulcerations of the Coxsackie virus in the mouth generally occur in the back of the throat around the tonsils and rear portion of the palate. Herpes type I lesions are found typically more forward in the mouth on the tongue, gums, inner cheeks and especially as typical vesicles (small clear blisters that ulcerate and crust) around the mouth and on the lips (aka "fever blisters").

The illness is characterised by intense sore throat, and fever; it lasts several days. It is contagious via saliva and airborne droplets. Treatment is supportive - treat the fever, give fluids and don't worry about solids for a few days.

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