Smallpox diagnostic criteria
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: João André Alves Silva, M.D. [2]
Overview
The diagnosis of smallpox is guided by an algorithm, elaborated by the CDC, that follows certain major and minor criteria.
Diagnosis
For the diagnosis of smallpox, the CDC along with other organizations, elaborated a group of major and minor criteria:[1][2]
Major
- On any singular part of the body, there needs to be lesions in the same stage of development
- Characteristic pustules:
- Well circumscribed and round
- Confluent or with a depression in the middle
- Fever occurring approximately 1-4 days before rash begins
- The fever is usually > than 102 degrees Fahrenheit (T ≥38.3ºC)
- With fever, at least one of the following symptoms:
Minor
- Patient appears toxic or near death
- Initial lesions will be on the oral mucosa, face, progression in a centrifugal fashion towards the arms and feet
- There will be lesions on the palms and soles
- Most of the lesions will be on the distal extremities and face (greatest concentration)
- Evolution of rash from macules to papules, to pustules, and finally to scabs
Diagram
This is a chart that describes a patient with a a generalized vesicular or pustular rash. It is also based upon the risk of smallpox to the patient.
References
- ↑ Moore, Zack S; Seward, Jane F; Lane, J Michael (2006). "Smallpox". The Lancet. 367 (9508): 425–435. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(06)68143-9. ISSN 0140-6736.
- ↑ Seward JF, Galil K, Damon I, Norton SA, Rotz L, Schmid S; et al. (2004). "Development and experience with an algorithm to evaluate suspected smallpox cases in the United States, 2002-2004". Clin Infect Dis. 39 (10): 1477–83. doi:10.1086/425500. PMID 15546084.