chickenpox

Question 1

about chickenpox

Answer 1

common viral infection
varicella zoster virus (VSV) which is a DNA virus of the herpesviridae virus.

transmission- droplet spread / direct skin contact entering upper resp tract

Question 2

clincial features of chickenpox

Answer 2

prodrome: fever, malaise, myalgia, anorexia, headache, nausea

rash:
vesicular rash - small erythematous macules which can develop to papules, vesicles, pustules.
palms, soles, mucous membranes (vesicles)
macules on scalp, face, trunk, proximal limbs
crusting occurs day 5

10-14 days typically.

Question 3

investigations for chickenpox

Answer 3

bedside- clinical diagnosis
lesion srapings can be tested if diagnostic complications is needed

Question 4

management of chickenpox

Answer 4

conservative
hyration, avoid scratching (infection risk and scarring), avoid pregnant women and neoneates and immunocompromised individuals

medical:
paraceteml and fever
AVOID NSAIDS
antihistamines / emollients / calamine lotion (for itchy)
oral aciclovir in adults presenting with 24 hr of rash