What are Koplik spots associated with?

Koplik spots are small, bluish-white lesions that appear on the mucous membranes of the mouth, typically opposite the lower molars. They are considered a classic diagnostic sign of measles (rubeola), appearing 1 to 2 days before the rash develops and persisting until the rash fades. These spots are often described as looking like grains of salt on a red base, providing a distinctive indication of a measles infection. The presence of Koplik spots is useful for healthcare professionals in identifying measles, especially in cases where the rash might not yet be visible or in early stages of the illness.

The other conditions listed do not feature Koplik spots as a symptom. For example, chickenpox features vesicular rashes; scarlet fever is characterized by a sandpaper-like rash and strawberry tongue; herpangina typically presents with small ulcers in the mouth but does not relate to Koplik spots. Understanding this association helps straightforwardly in the identification and diagnosis of measles in clinical settings.