Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which condition presents with three stages of rashes?

1. Erythema infectiosum

2. Fifth disease

3. Varicella

4. Scarlet fever

The correct answer is: Fifth disease

The condition that presents with three stages of rashes is indeed Fifth disease, which is also known as erythema infectiosum. Fifth disease primarily affects children and is caused by parvovirus B19. The progression of the rash in Fifth disease is characteristic, consisting of three distinct stages. Initially, there is a "slapped cheek" appearance due to a bright red rash on the face, which is most prominent in children. Following this, a lacy, reticular rash develops on the body and extremities. The final stage involves the fading of these rashes, often with a mottled appearance, which may persist for several weeks but resolves without treatment. This three-stage progression is a key identifying feature of Fifth disease and helps differentiate it from other conditions that may cause rashes. Understanding the specific characteristics and progression of rashes in various conditions is critical for accurate diagnosis and management in clinical practice.