Flat pox, also known as flat-type or malignant smallpox, is a very rare and severe form of smallpox characterized by intense toxemia and distinct skin lesions that remain flat.
Understanding Flat Pox
Flat-type smallpox represents an uncommon presentation of the variola virus infection. As highlighted by the CDC, it is a very rare form characterized by intense toxemia.
Unlike the more common "ordinary" type of smallpox where lesions progress from bumps to fluid-filled blisters and then scabs, the skin lesions in flat pox behave differently:
- They develop slowly.
- They merge together.
- They remain flat and soft, often described as having a "velvety" feel.
This lack of typical lesion progression distinguishes flat pox from ordinary smallpox. The condition appears more frequently in children. Due to the severe toxemia and altered lesion presentation, flat pox is considered a particularly dangerous manifestation of the disease.
Here's a summary of key characteristics from the reference:
- Alternative Names: Flat-type smallpox, Malignant smallpox
- Rarity: Very rare
- Severity: Characterized by intense toxemia
- Affected Population: Occurs more frequently in children
- Lesion Development: Develop slowly
- Lesion Appearance: Merge together, remain flat and soft ("velvety")
This type of smallpox underscores the varied and sometimes atypical ways the variola virus could manifest.
