Question:

Exanthema subitum is caused by which virus?

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Roseola infantum or sixth disease points to one herpesvirus.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • HHV-6
  • HHV-8
  • Parvovirus
  • Coxsackievirus
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Exanthema subitum is another name for roseola infantum or sixth disease, a febrile rash illness of infants and young children.

Step 2: It is caused by human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6). The typical course is a high fever for a few days that resolves abruptly, followed by the appearance of a rose pink maculopapular rash.

Step 3: The distractors cause other rash illnesses. HHV-8 is linked to Kaposi sarcoma. Parvovirus B19 causes erythema infectiosum (fifth disease) with a slapped cheek appearance. Coxsackievirus causes hand, foot and mouth disease and herpangina.

Step 4: Hence exanthema subitum (roseola infantum) is caused by HHV-6.
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