Varicella zoster causing preseptal cellulitis - uncommon but possible.
N H Qualickuz Zanan1, F D Zahedi2, S Husain3
1MBBs (MU) Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Summary
Varicella infection can lead to rare but serious skin complications like preseptal cellulitis in young children. Early recognition and antibiotic treatment are crucial for managing this condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases
- Ophthalmology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Varicella (chickenpox) is typically a mild childhood illness.
- Severe complications, including cutaneous manifestations, can occur in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised individuals.
- Preseptal cellulitis is a rare but recognized cutaneous complication of Varicella infection.
Observation:
- A 4-year-old boy presented with preseptal cellulitis following Varicella infection.
- The patient underwent nasoendoscopy to rule out sinusitis, given the potential for orbital cellulitis.
- The condition was successfully managed with intravenous antibiotics and surgical drainage.
Findings:
- Varicella infection can lead to preseptal cellulitis in children, particularly those aged 4 and younger.
- Preseptal cellulitis may present with symptoms mimicking orbital cellulitis.
- Prompt empirical antibiotic treatment is beneficial.
Implications:
- Clinicians must be aware of potential cutaneous complications of Varicella in pediatric patients.
- Differentiating preseptal from orbital cellulitis is critical for appropriate management.
- Nasoendoscopy may be necessary to exclude sinusitis as a contributing factor.
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