Related Experiment Videos
Varicella in pediatric patients
L A Drwal-Klein1, C A O'Donovan
1Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administration, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Sciences, Boston 02115.
The Annals of Pharmacotherapy
|July 1, 1993
Summary
Varicella (chickenpox) is a common childhood illness. While usually mild, the varicella vaccine shows promise for prevention, though long-term effects require further study.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric infectious diseases
- Virology
- Immunization
Background:
- Varicella-zoster virus causes a common, costly pediatric illness.
- Manifestations range from benign rash to severe complications.
- Diagnosis is primarily clinical.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review literature on varicella epidemiology, transmission, clinical aspects, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention in children.
- To assess current and future prevention strategies, including vaccination.
Main Methods:
- Literature search of English-language articles (1982-1992) using MEDLINE and bibliographies.
- Review of original studies and reviews on varicella in pediatric patients.
- Data extraction focused on patient population, efficacy, and safety.
Main Results:
- Varicella is highly contagious, typically presenting with vesicular lesions.
- Antiviral therapy may benefit immunocompromised children; symptomatic treatment is standard for healthy children.
- Varicella vaccine is immunogenic and effective, with manageable side effects.
Conclusions:
- Varicella is generally a benign childhood disease.
- Symptomatic therapy benefits all patients; antiviral use is not universally supported.
- The varicella vaccine is poised to be a key preventive tool, pending long-term safety data.