13.HSV3.dx.VZV_Flashcards
What are the complications of Chickenpox in healthy children?
Chickenpox in healthy children has a rare and low mortality rate.
What are the complications of Chickenpox in leukemic or immunocompromised children?
- More severe and often fatal.
- Can cause Disseminated Varicella Infection (DIC).
- Associated with encephalitis and pneumonia (rare in general).
What is Reye’s Syndrome, and how is it related to Chickenpox?
Reye’s Syndrome occurs in children, especially if aspirin is given during infection.
How does Chickenpox present in adults and immunocompromised patients (ICP)?
Chickenpox is more severe in adults and immunocompromised patients (ICP).
What are the diagnostic methods for VZV?
- Clinical Diagnosis: Based on typical rash; further testing often not required.
- Tzanck Smear: Identifies intranuclear inclusions in vesicular fluid.
- Serology/EM: Uses cell culture; cytopathic effects (CPE) are more focal and slower than HSV.
- PCR: Used for CSF or lesions; diagnoses myelitis or encephalitis but takes longer than HSV tests.
What drugs are used for treating VZV?
- Acyclovir: Effective in adults, ICP, and for preventing dissemination.
- Foscarnet: Used in acyclovir-resistant cases.
- Acyclovir is not recommended for immunocompetent children.
What are the preventive measures for VZV?
- Avoid contact, especially during asymptomatic shedding.
- Passive Immunization:
- VZIg (Varicella-Zoster Immunoglobulin): Given with acyclovir to prevent dissemination in high-risk individuals within 96 hours of exposure.
- Vaccination: Live attenuated VZV vaccine available for routine use.
Does Varicella infection provide long-term immunity?
Yes, Varicella infection provides long-lived immunity, but Zoster can still occur due to reactivation.
What is the status of children who recover from Zoster regarding Varicella reinfection?
Children who recover from Zoster develop resistance to Varicella re-infection.
