Related Experiment Video

Updated: Mar 13, 2026

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

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Varicella-Zoster Virus Infections in Pediatric Malignancy Patients: A Seven-Year Analysis

Mine Düzgöl1, Gülcihan Özek, Nuri Bayram

  • 1Dr. Behçet Uz Children Training and Research Hospital, Clinic of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, İzmir, Turkey, Phone: +90 232 489 56 56,

Turkish Journal of Haematology : Official Journal of Turkish Society of Haematology
|October 19, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infections in pediatric cancer patients can lead to significant mortality and chemotherapy delays. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing this contagious disease in immunocompromised children.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pediatric Oncology

Background:

  • Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection is typically benign but poses risks to immunocompromised individuals.
  • Pediatric cancer patients are particularly vulnerable to severe VZV complications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the outcomes and treatment of VZV infections in pediatric malignancy patients.
  • To assess the impact of VZV infection on chemotherapy schedules and patient mortality.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of 41 pediatric malignancy patients diagnosed with VZV infection.
  • Analysis of treatment regimens, including intravenous acyclovir duration.
  • Evaluation of chemotherapy delays and VZV-related complications.

Main Results:

  • All 41 patients received intravenous acyclovir for a median of 7 days.
  • A mean chemotherapy delay of 8 days was observed.
  • 7% of patients experienced VZV-related complications, including acute respiratory distress syndrome and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, with one fatality.

Conclusions:

  • VZV infections remain a significant concern in pediatric cancer patients, contributing to mortality.
  • VZV infection necessitates treatment delays, impacting cancer therapy efficacy.
  • Prompt management of VZV is essential to mitigate severe outcomes in this vulnerable population.

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