Varicella Zoster Virus Infection and Pregnancy: An Optimal Management Approach
Ana Ion1,2, Olguța Anca Orzan1,2, Beatrice Bălăceanu-Gurău1,2
1Faculty of Medicine, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania.
Pathogens (Basel, Switzerland)
|February 26, 2025
Summary
Varicella-zoster virus infection during pregnancy can cause serious complications for mothers and newborns. Early treatment of herpes zoster in pregnant women is recommended to manage pain and accelerate healing.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Obstetrics
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) causes chickenpox (primary infection) and herpes zoster (reactivation).
- VZV infection during pregnancy poses risks to mother, fetus, and newborn.
- Congenital varicella syndrome can occur if maternal infection happens in the first or second trimester.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the optimal management of VZV infection in pregnant women.
- To discuss potential complications and treatment strategies for VZV during pregnancy.
Main Methods:
- This is a narrative review.
- The review synthesizes existing literature on VZV infection in pregnancy.
Main Results:
- Primary VZV infection in pregnant women can lead to maternal complications like varicella pneumonia.
- Fetal risks include congenital varicella syndrome, depending on gestational stage.
- Neonatal herpes zoster can occur in about 20% of newborns following maternal primary VZV infection.
Conclusions:
- Reactivation of VZV during pregnancy generally poses minimal risk to the fetus.
- Early treatment of herpes zoster in pregnant women is advised to reduce pain and accelerate healing.
- Optimal management strategies are crucial for VZV infection during pregnancy.
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