Chickenpox Flashcards
What organism causes chickenpox?
Herpes Varicella Virus
How is chickenpox transmitted?
Respiratory droplets
and/or
foamite transmission (contact)
Can chickenpox be passed through vertical transmission?
Yes.
What is the peak age for chickenpox?
5-9 years of age.
What months have the highest rates of chickenpox?
January - May.
History and physical exam findings associated with chickenpox.
Sometimes a viral prodrome,
followed by a macularpapular rash that morphs into vesicles, then into pustules.
Description of chickenpox rash in a vaccinated patient.
Maculopapular - no vesicle.
When is a patient with chickenpox not infectious?
When the rash is crusted over.
“Classic” description of a chickenpox lesion.
“Dewdrop” vesicle with an erythematous base.
How does the chickenpox rash spread?
Starts in the face and scalp,
then spreads to the trunk,
and can (but not always) spread to mucous membranes.
Does not necessarily have to spread to the limbs.
What test can confirm chickenpox?
PCR (swab) of vesicular liquid.
2 populations at highest-risk for chickenpox complications?
- Immunocompromised
- Pregnant people.
Non-pharmacological therapy for chickenpox?
- Calamine lotion
- Oatmeal bath.
Pharmacological therapy for chickenpox?
- Acyclovir (cheaper, more frequent dosing)
or - Valacyclovir (more expensive, less frequent dosing)
Most common complication of chickenpox in an immunocompetent patient is…
Streptococcal infection of lesion.
