Measles Overview

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering key vocabulary related to measles, its pathogenesis, complications, vaccination, and epidemiology.

Measles

A disease caused by an enveloped RNA-containing virus, related genetically to canine distemper virus.

Paramyxovirus

The family of viruses to which the measles virus belongs.

Rubeola

The clinical disease caused by the measles virus, distinct from rubella (German measles).

Viremia

The presence of viruses in the blood; established by the measles virus in monocytes and macrophages.

Koplik’s spots

Tiny bluish-white spots on a red base that appear in the mouth within 2 to 4 days after measles infection.

CD4+ DTH T cells

Type of T cell that recognizes virus-infected endothelial cells, contributing to rash development in measles.

Epidemiology

Mortality from measles ranges from 0.1% in industrial countries to 15% in developing countries.

Neurologic complications

Serious consequences of measles virus infection, including acute encephalitis and subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE).

Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE)

A progressive neurological disorder that can occur following measles infection, arising primarily in children.

MMR Vaccine

The measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine, which significantly reduces the incidence of measles and its complications.

Immunization

A process by which individuals become protected against measles and sustain immunity for life after clinical measles.

Vaccine hesitation

Concerns regarding the safety of the MMR vaccine, which have led to increased measles incidence in populations.