The characteristic rash and pathognomonic Koplik's spots permit a clinical diagnosis.
- Serologic testing is the most common method of laboratory diagnosis. Measles-specific IgM is usually detectable within 1-3 days of rash onset.
- Viral culture and reverse-transcription PCR analysis of clinical specimens are used occasionally to detect measles.
Treatment: Measles - Supportive care is the mainstay of treatment, as there is no specific antiviral therapy for measles. Prompt antibiotic therapy for pts with secondary bacterial infections helps reduce morbidity and mortality risks.
- Vitamin A (for children ≥12 months: 200,000 IU/d for 2 days) is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) for all children with measles.
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