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Updated: Jun 19, 2026
08:04
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
RELATION OF VARICELLA TO HERPES ZOSTER : II. CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL OBSERVATIONS
1Hospital of The Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research.
The Journal of Experimental Medicine
|October 30, 2009
Summary
The varicella-zoster virus identity was investigated. Results suggest that the viruses causing chickenpox and shingles are typically distinct, not the same agent.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Varicella (chickenpox) and herpes zoster (shingles) are common viral exanthems.
- Clinical presentation and epidemiology suggest potential etiological links between varicella and herpes zoster.
- Understanding the viral agents is crucial for disease control and prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the identity of the viral agents responsible for varicella and herpes zoster.
- To determine if the viruses causing chickenpox and shingles are identical or distinct.
Main Methods:
- Clinical observations and experimental data were analyzed.
- Comparative studies were conducted on viral characteristics.
Main Results:
- Experimental and clinical findings indicate that the etiological agents of varicella and herpes zoster are not identical in most cases.
- Evidence suggests distinct viral entities are responsible for these two conditions.
Conclusions:
- The viruses causing chickenpox and shingles are generally not the same.
- This finding has implications for understanding viral pathogenesis and epidemiology.
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