What unique symptom may appear in the mouth of someone with measles?

The unique symptom associated with measles that may appear in the mouth is small white spots on the back inner cheeks, known as Koplik spots. These spots are often considered an early indicator of measles infection and can be seen before the characteristic rash appears. They are typically located on the buccal mucosa (the inner lining of the cheeks) and may resemble grains of salt or small white lesions.

Identifying these spots is important for healthcare professionals, as their presence can help differentiate measles from other viral infections, particularly in a context where a patient might present with fever and conjunctivitis. Recognizing Koplik spots is pivotal in the early stages of the disease, facilitating timely diagnosis and management to prevent complications and reduce transmission risk.