Signs of Chicken Pox (Varicella)

Description

Chickenpox is a viral disease caused by the herpes virus varicella zoster. It is very contagious and was much more common before the chickenpox vaccine became available. In most cases it is a mild disease but can be very serious in the very young, those with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, people with eczema, and adults. Serious cases can affect the lungs causing a pneumonia, and the brain causing encephalitis. Those patients at risk should try to avoid exposure to the illness. Once someone has chickenpox it remains dormant in the body and can be reactivated later in life as shingles.

Symptoms

Fever, headache, stomach ache, and decrease appetite occur for a day or two before the rash develops. The rash consists of small red bumps, and fluid filled blisters. The rash involves the face, body and scalp and is itchy. After a couple of days the blisters crust over and scab. The blisters can also occur in the mouth, vagina and eyelids. Rarely patients can experience breathing problems, severe headache and confusion.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. Chickenpox is usually diagnosed from the classic rash and other symptoms. Blood tests, and tests of the pox blisters themselves, can positively identify the virus but are rarely necessary.

Treatment

Most cases do not require anymore treatment than local skin care with oatmeal baths and topical lotions for comfort. Oral antihistamines such as diphenhydramine/Benadryl can ease the itching. The nails should be kept short to prevent scarring from scratching. Antiviral drugs such as acyclovir/Zovirax are available and should be started within 24 hours of the rash. These drugs are recommended in those groups at risk for more serious infections, and in cases of suspected pneumonia or encephalitis. Do not give children aspirin since this has been associated with Reyes syndrome. There is a vaccine to prevent chicken pox. The following people should not get the vaccine: those allergic to gelatin, neomycin or a previous chicken pox vaccine; people who are ill at the time of the shot; and pregnant women. The following people should check with their doctor before receiving the vaccine: people with HIV/AIDS; diseases that affect the immune system; those on steroids or other drugs that could decrease the immune system; those with cancer; and people who recently received a transfusion.