Disseminated Varicella-Zoster and Acute Liver Failure in a Patient With Crohn's Disease on Systemic Immunosuppression

Approximately 4 million cases of varicella-zoster occur annually, most of which are self-limited and managed conservatively with supportive care with or without oral valacyclovir. However, varicella-zoster rarely disseminates leading to severe systemic illness affecting multiple organs. Disseminated varicella-zoster causes significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. In this study, we report a case of a 27-year-old immunosuppressed man who developed disseminated varicella-zoster infection culminating in multiorgan failure and death. We review the epidemiology, risk factors, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of disseminated varicella-zoster.