Congenital VZV

Question 1

What is varicella zoster virus responsible for?

Answer 1

Chickenpox

Shingles

Question 2

How can congenital varicella zoster virus syndrome occur?

Answer 2

A non-immune woman contracts VZV during the first trimester of pregnancy

Question 3

What type of effect can VZV have on a fetus?

Answer 3

Teratogenic effect

Question 4

When does a pregnant women need to be infected with VZV for it to present as congenital varicella zoster syndrome?

Answer 4

In the first 28 weeks

Question 5

What are the possible features of congenital varicella zoster virus?

Answer 5

• Low birth weight
• Limb hypoplasia (underdeveloped limbs)
• Skin scarring
• Microcephaly, hydrocephaly and learning disabilities
• Eye defects

Question 6

What is limb hypoplasia?

Answer 6

Underdeveloped limbs

Question 7

What eye defects can occur with CVZ syndrome?

Answer 7

Cataracts

Inflammation in the eye (chorioretinitis)

Question 8

How is congenital varicella zoster virus diagnosed?

Answer 8

Clinically

Question 9

What are pregnant women with no immunity advised to do?

Answer 9

Avoid exposure to the virus.

Question 10

What would you give a non-immune pregnant woman who comes into contact with Varicella zoster virus?

Answer 10

Immunoglobulin

Question 11

What can be used to treat the maternal infection?

Answer 11

Acyclovir

Question 12

When should acyclovir be given?

Answer 12

Within 24 hours of the onset of the rash.

Question 13

What is the management of a neonate who has been exposed to the maternal infection?

Answer 13

Monitor and give IV acyclovir following delivery.