Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease: Common Concerns and Questions - Pediatrics

More Info

---

Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD) is a common viral infection primarily affecting young children, typically caused by enteroviruses, with Enterovirus 71 (EV71) being one of the more severe strains. Your concerns regarding your children’s symptoms are valid, and I will address each of your questions based on current medical understanding.

1. Recovery from HFMD: It’s great to hear that your son’s mouth sores have healed. However, the presence of rashes on his arms and legs indicates that he may still be in the recovery phase of HFMD. The rashes associated with HFMD can last for several days to a week after other symptoms have resolved. Generally, the rashes will gradually fade, and you should monitor them for any changes. If the rashes worsen or if new symptoms arise, it would be prudent to consult a pediatrician.

2. Sleep Movements in Your Daughter: The very mild twitching or movements your daughter exhibits while sleeping could be benign and may not necessarily indicate a serious condition. These movements can sometimes be related to normal sleep cycles or could be a form of myoclonic jerks, which are brief, involuntary muscle contractions. If these movements are infrequent and not associated with any other concerning symptoms (such as prolonged episodes of unresponsiveness), they may not be a cause for alarm. However, if you notice an increase in frequency or severity, or if they disrupt her sleep significantly, it would be wise to discuss this with her pediatrician.

3. Elevated White Blood Cell Count and Inflammation: Yes, enteroviral infections, including HFMD, can lead to an elevated white blood cell count and signs of inflammation, as indicated by the CRP (C-reactive protein) levels. The body’s immune response to the viral infection can cause these changes, which are common in many viral illnesses. The white blood cell count of 14,000 is slightly elevated, especially in the context of fever, which suggests that the body is responding to an infection. Monitoring these levels over time can help assess the resolution of the infection.

4. Diagnosis of EV71: Diagnosing specific strains of enteroviruses, including EV71, typically relies on laboratory testing, which may include PCR (polymerase chain reaction) testing of throat swabs, stool samples, or cerebrospinal fluid in more severe cases. However, in many instances, especially in mild cases of HFMD, the diagnosis is made clinically based on the characteristic symptoms and rash. While laboratory confirmation can be helpful, it is not always necessary for management, especially if the clinical picture is clear.

In summary, HFMD is usually a self-limiting condition, and supportive care is often sufficient. Ensure your children stay hydrated and comfortable, and monitor their symptoms closely. If you have any concerns about their recovery or if new symptoms develop, do not hesitate to reach out to their healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.