In this Article

• What is hand-foot-and-mouth syndrome (HFM)?
• What are the symptoms of hand-foot-and-mouth syndrome?
• What causes hand-foot-and-mouth syndrome?
• What is the incubation period for hand-foot-and-mouth syndrome?
• When does hand-foot-and-mouth syndrome usually occur?
• What is the expression of the syndrome?
• What is the course of the disease?
• Why haven't we heard more about this condition?
• How is HFM diagnosed?
• Hand-Food-and-Mouth Syndrome At A Glance
• Hand-Foot-And-Mouth Syndrome Glossary
• Hand-Foot-And-Mouth Syndrome Index

What is the course of the disease?

The illness is characteristically self-limited and is usually over and done within a week, particularly when due to its most common cause, Coxsackie virus A-16. In those outbreaks due to Enterovirus 71, the illness may be more severe with complications such as viral meningitis and encephalitis and paralytic disease. As a rule, HFM is generally a mild and self-limited illness.

Why haven't we heard more about this condition?

Recognition of hand-foot-and-mouth syndrome is relatively recent (as compared to mumps, measles, and chickenpox, for example). HFM was first reported in 1956 in Australia. By the early 1960s, it had emerged as a common childhood illness around the world.

How is HFM diagnosed?

Usually, the diagnosis of HFM is made on a combination of clinical history and characteristic physical findings. Laboratory confirmation is rarely necessary unless severe complications develop.

How is HFM treated?

Therapy for HFM is directed toward symptomatic relief of fever and sore throat. Antibiotics are not indicated for this viral disease.

Hand-Food-and-Mouth Syndrome At A Glance

• Hand-foot-and-mouth syndrome is a viral disease.
• Hand-foot-and-mouth syndrome produces a rash on the hands, feet, and in the mouth.
• Hand-foot-and-mouth syndrome often occurs in the spring and fall.
• Hand-foot-and-mouth syndrome is common in kids, particularly preschoolers.
• Hand-foot-and-mouth syndrome usually is mild and over within a week. Treatment is directly toward relief of symptoms (fever and sore throat).