Varicella: Difference between revisions

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==Diagnosis==
==Diagnosis==
[[File:Varicela Rash.jpg|thumbnail|Male with varicella rash: lesions in various stages of development]]
[[File:Varicela Rash.jpg|thumbnail|Male with varicella rash: lesions in various stages of development]]
[[File:Chickenpox blister.jpg|thumbnail|Classic blister during early stage of lesion development]]
*Pruritic generalized vesicular exanthem w/ mild systemic manifestations
*Pruritic generalized vesicular exanthem w/ mild systemic manifestations
*Usually affects children <10y
*Usually affects children <10y

Revision as of 18:21, 3 November 2014

Background

  • Also known as "Chicken Pox"
  • Contagious until last lesion crusts over

Diagnosis

Male with varicella rash: lesions in various stages of development
Classic blister during early stage of lesion development
  • Pruritic generalized vesicular exanthem w/ mild systemic manifestations
  • Usually affects children <10y
  • Rash
    • Starts on trunk or scalp as pruritic, red macules, spreads to extremities
    • W/in 24hr rash becomes vesicular (on erythematous base)
    • Palms/soles spared
    • Lesions in various stages of development

Differential Diagnosis

Treatment

  • Tylenol, antihistamine, oatmeal baths
  • No Aspirin (may predispose to Reye syndrome)
  • Routine use of antiretrovirals for uncomplicated cases in immunocompetent children is not recommended (Tintinallli 7th ed)
  • Immunocompromised: IV acyclovir or high-dose PO tx (600mg/m2/day)

Complications

  • Can include encephalitis, pneumonia, hepatitis, strep/staph superinfection of ruptured vesicles
  • Perinatal infection in neonates may develop serious illness

See Also

Pediatric Rashes