[Interpretation of varicella serology in pregnancy]

Chickenpox during pregnancy may result in a severe, in some cases fatal, generalized infection of the newborn. Pregnant women with unknown Varicella-Zoster-virus (VZV) immunity, who have had contact with an individual infected by chickenpox, should be tested immediately for specific antibodies to VZV. The interpretation of test results may be difficult under certain circumstances. This problem is discussed using individual case studies.