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Development of an IFN-γ ELISpot Assay to Assess Varicella-Zoster Virus-specific Cell-mediated Immunity Following Umbilical Cord Blood Transplantation
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Development of an IFN-γ ELISpot Assay to Assess Varicella-Zoster Virus-specific Cell-mediated Immunity Following Umbilical Cord Blood Transplantation

Published on: July 9, 2014

Severe varicella caused by varicella-vaccine strain in a child with significant T-cell dysfunction

Patrick Jean-Philippe1, Abigail Freedman, Mary Wu Chang

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, New York University School of Medicine, New York, New York, USA. jeanphilippep@niaid.nih.gov

Pediatrics
|November 3, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Varicella vaccine can cause severe reactions in immunocompromised children. An 18-month-old girl experienced rash and pneumonia after inadvertent vaccination, highlighting risks in vulnerable populations.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Pediatrics
  • Vaccinology

Background:

  • The US Food and Drug Administration approved the live attenuated varicella vaccine in March 1995.
  • The vaccine is indicated for healthy children aged 12 months to 12 years.

Observation:

  • An 18-month-old girl with cell-mediated immunodeficiency inadvertently received the varicella vaccine.
  • The child developed a severe vaccine-associated rash.
  • Clinical evidence of vaccine-associated pneumonia was observed.

Findings:

  • The patient experienced adverse events including severe rash and pneumonia.
  • These events occurred approximately one month post-vaccination.
  • The case highlights potential vaccine risks in immunocompromised individuals.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of screening for immunodeficiency before varicella vaccination.
  • Careful consideration of vaccine safety in immunocompromised pediatric populations is crucial.
  • Further research may be needed to establish clear guidelines for varicella vaccination in specific immune-compromised groups.

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