Measles

Synonyms in a broader sense

Latin medical: morbilli

Definition

Measles is an acute infectious disease caused by the measles virus and is widespread worldwide. Initially, patients suffer from flu-like symptoms followed by a rash. Measles is usually a childhood disease. This is due to the high risk of infection, so that the infestation with the measles virus is already very high in childhood.

SymptomsComplaints

Typical for measles in the catarrhal stage are the colpic spots that can be seen on the mucous membrane of the mouth in connection with high fever, conjunctivitis and severe feeling of illness. This is followed by exanthema, which in measles typically begins behind the ears and then spreads over the body. The measles infection can also be recognized by the extreme light shyness, the infestation of the conjunctiva and the extremely strong symptoms of the disease.

The symptoms are divided into two phases. The first phase is called prodromal stage, the second phase is called exanthema stage. In the first phase, the precursor stage, patients show flu-like symptoms.

The following occurs: The photophobia that occurs is due to the inflammation of the conjunctiva. Redness of the oral mucosa is typical. White, calciferous spots appear on the cheek mucosa.

These so-called Kolpik spots usually appear on the second to third day of the disease. On the following day, the entire mucous membrane of the mouth and throat is reddened. During this time the first fever peak occurs.

In general, fatigue and exhaustion can also be observed. The prodromal stage lasts about three to four days. At the end, the body temperature drops back to normal values.

In the second phase the typical rash develops all over the body. It usually starts behind the ears and then spreads further. It is characterized by small red, dot-shaped spots.

When the rash breaks out, the fever rises again. After about three days the fever starts to fall again. This stage lasts about three days.

The neck lymph nodes are also usually swollen. and skin rash Measles

The rash of measles typically begins after the fever has subsided. However, when the rash breaks out, the fever can rise again very sharply.

It usually starts behind the ears and spreads from there over the entire body. The exanthema in measles is accompanied by a strong feeling of illness. It can also cause swelling of all lymph nodes and pain in the lymph nodes. Some patients may experience diarrhea. After four to five days, the exanthema subsides.