Australian Dental Council (ADC) Practice Test

Herpangina is a viral infection primarily caused by the Coxsackie virus, which is part of the enterovirus family. This infection predominantly affects children and is characterized by the sudden onset of fever, sore throat, and painful ulcers or lesions located on the soft palate and the back of the throat. The lesions are typically small, grayish-white, and can be quite uncomfortable, leading to difficulty swallowing.

Coxsackie viruses, especially type A16, are well-known for their association with herpangina. These viruses are transmitted through respiratory droplets and fecal-oral routes, making them highly contagious. Understanding the correct viral etiology is important for diagnosis and management because it helps differentiate herpangina from other oral conditions, such as those caused by herpes simplex virus or Epstein-Barr virus. Each virus has its unique clinical presentation and approach for treatment, emphasizing why it is essential to identify Coxsackie virus as the causative agent in herpangina.