Koplik spot is the typical sign of?

Appeared in: NHM UP Staff Nurse - 2017

Explanation

Koplik spots are considered a pathognomonic sign of measles (rubeola), meaning their presence is diagnostic of the infection.
These spots are small, bluish-white lesions, often described as looking like 'grains of salt on a red background'.
They appear on the buccal mucosa (the inner lining of the cheeks), typically opposite the lower molars.
Koplik spots manifest during the prodromal stage, about 1 to 2 days before the onset of the generalized maculopapular skin rash characteristic of measles.

Option A: Mumps is a viral infection primarily affecting the salivary glands.
Option C: Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a bacterial infection of the respiratory tract.
Option D: Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection affecting the mucous membranes of the nose and throat.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Clinical signs of communicable diseases as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Recognizing Koplik spots is crucial for nurses as it allows for early, presumptive diagnosis of measles even before the more generalized rash appears.
Early identification enables prompt implementation of infection control measures, such as airborne precautions and patient isolation, to prevent the highly contagious virus from spreading in healthcare settings and the community.
A suspected case of measles is a public health priority. Nurses must ensure prompt notification to public health authorities for epidemiological tracking and management of potential outbreaks.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question stem, which is 'Koplik spot'.
This is a factual recall question that tests knowledge of pathognomonic (characteristic) signs of common infectious diseases.
Recall or systematically review the classic signs associated with each option.
Associate Mumps with parotitis, Pertussis with a 'whooping' cough, and Diphtheria with a pseudomembrane.
Recognize that Koplik spots are uniquely and diagnostically linked to Measles.
Select the option that correctly matches the sign to the disease.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Qp1BH3-7d6ISYXrPG4VqeJ

E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 1 p. 1682-1684

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 1 p. 1965-1967

E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 1 — Subpart A (pp 26-201 of 604) p. 150-152

Practise the full NHM UP Staff Nurse - 2017

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.