[Varicella induced rhabdomyolysis]
L Rodríguez Ferrán1, A Vernet Bori, P Poo Argüelles
1Servicios de Pediatría.Hospital Sant Joan de Déu. Barcelona. avernet@hsjdbcn.org
Anales Espanoles De Pediatria
|October 2, 2001
Summary
Varicella-zoster infection can rarely cause rhabdomyolysis, a serious muscle condition. Early hydration is key to preventing severe complications like kidney failure in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurology
Background:
- Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection is common in childhood, typically causing mild illness.
- Complications include bacterial infections, pneumonia, and neurological issues like encephalitis and cerebellitis.
- Rhabdomyolysis, a severe muscle breakdown, is a rare but serious complication.
Observation:
- A 5-year-old girl with pre-existing developmental delays presented with extreme muscle weakness during a VZV infection.
- Clinical presentation included prostration, elevated creatine phosphokinase levels, and myoglobinuria.
- The patient had a history of mental retardation, microcephalia, and mild diplegia.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with VZV-induced rhabdomyolysis.
- Aggressive intravenous hydration was administered as treatment.
- The patient experienced a favorable outcome with no evidence of renal failure.
Implications:
- Rhabdomyolysis can lead to life-threatening complications including renal failure and disseminated intravascular coagulation.
- Infectious causes of rhabdomyolysis are less common than other triggers.
- Early recognition and prompt hyperhydration are crucial for managing VZV-induced rhabdomyolysis and preventing complications, suggesting potential underdiagnosis of milder cases.
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