Pastia's lines

Pastia's Lines are a clinical sign often associated with Scarlet Fever, a disease caused by infection with the Group A Streptococcus bacterium. Named after the Romanian pediatrician Henric Streitman Pastia, these lines are characterized by a bright red coloration that appears in the skin folds of the body, such as the armpits, elbows, knees, and neck.

Clinical Presentation

Pastia's lines typically present as a rash that is bright red in color and appears in the creases of the skin. The rash may also have a rough, sandpaper-like texture. These lines are most commonly seen in children who have contracted Scarlet Fever, although they can also occur in adults. The rash usually appears on the second day of the illness and may last for up to a week.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of Pastia's lines is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic appearance of the rash in the context of a suspected or confirmed case of Scarlet Fever. Laboratory tests, such as a throat culture or rapid strep test, may be used to confirm the presence of Group A Streptococcus infection.

Treatment

Treatment for Pastia's lines involves addressing the underlying cause, which is typically a Group A Streptococcus infection. This is usually accomplished with antibiotics, such as Penicillin or Amoxicillin. In addition to antibiotic therapy, supportive care measures such as rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers may be recommended.

See Also

• Scarlet Fever
• Group A Streptococcus
• Henric Streitman Pastia