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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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PEPtalk: postexposure prophylaxis against varicella in children with cancer

Jessica Bate1, Julia Chisholm, Paul T Heath

  • 1Division of Clinical Sciences, St George's, University of London, London, UK.

Archives of Disease in Childhood
|July 1, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) for varicella zoster virus (VZV) in UK and Ireland children with cancer is inconsistent. A trial comparing VZIG and aciclovir for VZV PEP is needed.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Oncology
  • Infectious Disease Prevention
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Children undergoing cancer treatment are immunocompromised and at high risk for severe varicella zoster virus (VZV) infections.
  • Effective postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) is crucial for preventing VZV complications in this vulnerable population.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the current practices and attitudes regarding VZV PEP in children with malignancy in the UK and Ireland.
  • To identify the population at risk, frequency of VZV exposure, and clinical management strategies.

Main Methods:

  • Observational study involving a retrospective serostatus survey, VZIG dispensing data collation, and an online survey of pediatric oncologists.
  • Data collected from children diagnosed with malignancy and healthcare providers in the UK and Ireland.

Main Results:

  • Approximately 24% of children diagnosed with malignancy annually are VZV seronegative.
  • Around 250 children with cancer receive VZV PEP annually, with half receiving VZIG and the other half oral aciclovir.
  • No consensus exists among oncologists regarding the preferred VZV PEP, highlighting a lack of evidence.

Conclusions:

  • Current VZV PEP practices for children with cancer in the UK and Ireland are varied.
  • A randomized controlled trial is necessary to compare the efficacy and acceptability of VZIG versus aciclovir for VZV PEP.
Abstract

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