* * *
* * *
a moderately contagious, often benign epidemic disease seen mainly in children and caused by B19 virus; the primary characteristic is a rash of abrupt onset that begins as redness of the cheeks, which appear to have been slapped; later there is a maculopapular rash on the trunk and limbs; when this fades,there may be central clearing that leaves a lacelike pattern. Immunocompromised patients may develop severe cases. Called also fifth disease.Medical dictionary. 2011.