Overlapping Signs and Symptoms Between Recurrent Varicella and Pityriasis rosea Gibert
Koichi Baba1, Tomoko Baba1, Pearay L Ogra2
1From the BABA Pediatric Clinic, Kadoma, Japan.
The Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal
|June 28, 2022
Summary
This study suggests varicella-zoster virus (VZV) may cause Pityriasis rosea (PRG). VZV DNA and antibodies were detected in PRG patients, indicating a potential viral link.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Virology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Pityriasis rosea Gibert (PRG) shares features with childhood infectious diseases, hinting at a viral etiology, though no specific agent has been confirmed.
- Previous research has not definitively identified the causative agent for PRG.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential role of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) in the pathogenesis of Pityriasis rosea (PRG).
- To explore the virological and immunological characteristics of children diagnosed with PRG and recurrent varicella.
Main Methods:
- Photochronography, virology, and immunology techniques were employed.
- Samples including blood, skin lesions, and nasal lavage were collected for VZV DNA and antibody detection.
- Cell-mediated immunity to VZV was assessed using skin tests.
Main Results:
- VZV DNA was detected in the skin lesions of 3 out of 4 PRG patients.
- Elevated IgG antibodies to VZV were observed in 5 patients during the acute phase.
- Positive skin-test reactions to VZV were noted in 5 patients.
Conclusions:
- High VZV IgG antibody titers at rash onset suggest VZV reinfection or reactivation in PRG patients.
- The findings propose a novel VZV-driven pathogenesis for PRG, potentially explaining clinical variations.
- This research may resolve inconsistencies in existing theories regarding PRG's viral entry, replication, and clinical course.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:25Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis
23
Endocarditis can present various clinical features depending on the causative organism and the patient's underlying health conditions. Initially, the clinical features of infective endocarditis develop gradually, presenting with nonspecific symptoms that can be easily mistaken for other illnesses.General SymptomsEarly symptoms of infective endocarditis are fever, chills, weakness, malaise, fatigue, and weight loss. These symptoms reflect the systemic nature of the infection and the body's...
23
00:42Cross-reactivity
31.5K
Overview
31.5K
01:22Rheumatic Heart Disease II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
51
The key clinical manifestations of Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) include several distinct cardiac symptoms.Carditis, a hallmark of acute rheumatic fever, involves inflammation of the heart's endocardium, myocardium, and pericardium. Chronic RHD often results from recurrent episodes of carditis. Its symptoms include the following:Murmurs are caused by valvular damage, especially to the mitral and aortic valves. Mitral stenosis or regurgitation is common, with characteristic heart murmurs...
51
01:27Myocarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
20
Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle. The symptoms vary widely, encompassing asymptomatic presentations to severe, acute manifestations.Clinical PresentationAsymptomatic cases: In some instances, myocarditis may be asymptomatic, with the infection resolving without intervention. These cases often go undetected unless discovered incidentally through diagnostic imaging or tests conducted for other reasons.General Early Symptoms: Early symptoms of myocarditis are non-specific and can...
20
01:23Rheumatic Heart Disease I: Introduction
36
Rheumatic heart disease or RHD is a chronic condition that results from rheumatic fever, causing permanent damage to the heart valves.Etiology and Risk FactorsIt primarily arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory disease that can develop after untreated or inadequately treated group A streptococcal (GAS) pharyngitis. Streptococcus spreads through direct contact with oral or respiratory secretions. While the bacteria are the causative agents, factors like malnutrition, overcrowding, poor...
36
01:19Pericarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
19
Pericarditis is distinguished by inflammation of the pericardium, the fibrous sac that encases the heart. It can be acute, lasting less than six weeks, or chronic, persisting for over three months. Understanding its clinical manifestations and diagnostic findings is crucial for timely and effective management.Clinical ManifestationsWhile pericarditis can be asymptomatic, it usually presents with characteristic symptoms such as:Chest Pain: The most characteristic symptom of pericarditis is chest...
19