Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

Which virus is known to cause hand-foot-mouth disease?

1. Enterovirus D68

2. Coxsackie A

3. Rhinovirus

4. Respiratory Syncytial Virus

The correct answer is: Coxsackie A

Hand-foot-mouth disease is primarily caused by Coxsackie A virus, which is a member of the enterovirus family. This contagious illness primarily affects children, resulting in symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and the characteristic rash of sores on the hands, feet, and inside the mouth. Coxsackie A virus is particularly known for its ability to target the mucosal surfaces, leading to the oral lesions that are a hallmark of this disease. Understanding the specific viral etiology is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management, as each of these viruses has different clinical implications and transmission routes. While Enterovirus D68 and rhinovirus are related to respiratory illnesses, they are not associated with hand-foot-mouth disease. Similarly, respiratory syncytial virus, primarily responsible for respiratory infections, does not cause this specific condition. Therefore, identifying Coxsackie A as the causative agent is essential for recognizing and addressing hand-foot-mouth disease effectively.