Clinical Features of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease in Children: An Age-Based Analysis

Overview

This study investigates age-stratified clinical characteristics of hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) in children, revealing significant differences in manifestations and complications across age groups.

Background

HFMD is a prevalent pediatric infectious disease caused by enteroviruses, particularly affecting children under 5 years of age. Its clinical presentation can range from mild symptoms to severe neurological complications, making early identification of high-risk patients crucial for effective management.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• Children aged 1–3 years represented 62.76% of cases, with 88.43% under 4 years old.
• Neonates exhibited higher CSF abnormalities but lower rates of rash and herpangina.
• The 1 month–1 year group had the highest peripheral WBC and lymphocyte counts.
• Convulsions were most common in the 1–3 years age group.
• Children over 3 years had a higher incidence of intracranial hypertension.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should be aware of the distinct clinical presentations and potential complications associated with different age groups.

Conclusion

HFMD demonstrates significant clinical heterogeneity based on age.

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