Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 16, 2026

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
Varicella during pregnancy: the timing of effective treatment
1University of Nebraska Medical Center, Department of Family Practice, Omaha 68105.
Abstract:
Maternal varicella infections during pregnancy can be either benign or disastrous for the infant according to the timing of infection during gestation. We report a case of varicella occurring at term that was managed successfully. Appropriate management includes tocolysis, unless contraindicated, and varicella-zoster immune globulin (VZIG) administered to the mother within 72 hours of delivery, or to the neonate when the mother's rash appears within 48 hours after delivery. Treatment can markedly decrease the risk of mortality and severe morbidity in the relatively immunocompromised infant.
Related Concept Videos
Development of Immunocompetence
The initial cells that migrate from the fetal thymus settle within the skin and epithelial tissues lining the mouth, digestive tract, and in females, the uterus and vagina. These cells, including skin-based dendritic cells, serve as antigen-presenting cells, playing a key role in T cell activation.
Subsequent T...
Diphtheria
Smallpox
Chickenpox
Cytomegalovirus Disease
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Disease

