Koplik's spots

System: General & Eye–Ear Signs · All general & eye–ear signs

What it is — and how it is elicited

Tiny white or bluish-white grains on a red base, seen on the inner cheek opposite the molars, appearing a day or two before the measles rash.

What a positive finding suggests

Associated with measles (rubeola) in its prodromal phase.

◈ Behind the name

Henry Koplik (1858–1927), American paediatrician.

Browse the K section of the A–Z list or return to the Clinical Signs hub.

Please note: This page is an educational reference about clinical examination signs. A clinical sign supports — and never replaces — a full clinical evaluation, examination and appropriate testing. A sign being present does not by itself prove a diagnosis, and an absent sign does not rule one out. If you have symptoms that worry you, see a health professional.