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Hand. Foot and Mouth Disease (HFM)

Macaroni Health

By Dr. Mark Garabedian, Pediatrician - Hanover Pediatrics July 18, 2014
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFM) is an extremely common childhood viral infection, most often caused by a strain of the Coxsackie virus (A16).  It is an extremely contagious infection, and is most common in children under 10 years of age, although infection in older children, teens and adults can occur. 

The hallmark of HFM are painful mouth ulcers as well as small, discrete blisters (vesicles) on the palms and soles.  Malaise and marked decrease in appetite are also commonly associated with HFM, while less common findings include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and a rash at the buttocks. This rash can occasionally be painful or itchy, and resolves spontaneously in about 10 days.  The mouth ulcers can vary in location and presentation, appearing as either small red pimples (papules) or blisters (vesicles) and involve the tongue, back of throat, gums, inside of cheeks and on occasion the lips.  These mouth lesions can persist for up to 1 week.

HFM is an extremely common infection during the Spring and Summer months and typically is more prevalent during these seasons than Strep throat.  Herpangina is another viral infection involving painful throat sores this time of year, but with Herpangina there is no associated rash. 
Typically a fever, irritability, poor feeding, and drooling in an infant or toddler may be assumed to be teething-related by parents.  Upon closer inspection of the mouth and throat, painful ulcers are noted in the area around the tonsils. 

The treatment for HFM and Herpangina is supportive, as antibiotics will not treat these viral infections.  Cool, soft foods and fluids along with pain medications (Tylenol, Motrin, Advil) will help your child as their body fights the infection. 

Don't forget the TLC, your little one will need it!

Dr. Garabedian received his medical degree from New York Medical College and completed his residency in pediatrics at North Shore University Hospital and Cornell University Medical Center. He is board certified by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Prior to joining Bon Secours Medical Group, Dr. Garabedian was in private practice in Southampton, New York, for 16 years. He is now a pediatrician at Hanover Pediatrics with Bon Secours and can be reached here.