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[Myelitis and optic neuritis caused by varicella]
M A Pina1, J R Ara, J L Capablo
1Servicio de Neurología, Hospital Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, España.
Revista De Neurologia
|February 14, 1998
Summary
Varicella-Zoster virus can cause rare neurological issues like myelitis and optic neuritis. This case suggests an immune response, not direct viral invasion, may trigger these complications.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Varicella (chickenpox) is a common childhood infection caused by the Varicella-Zoster virus.
- Neurological complications are rare but can be severe, including myelitis and optic neuritis.
- The exact cause of these neurological issues is not fully understood.
Observation:
- An 18-year-old woman developed myelitis 15 days post-varicella.
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed antibodies against the Varicella-Zoster virus.
- She later experienced optic neuritis, with both conditions resolving without lasting effects.
Findings:
- The patient experienced two distinct neurological episodes: myelitis and optic neuritis.
- Cerebral and medullary MRI scans showed no abnormalities.
- Intrathecal antibody production indicated an immune response to the Varicella-Zoster virus.
Implications:
- The case suggests that immunological mechanisms, rather than direct viral invasion, may cause neurological complications after Varicella.
- Corticosteroid treatment led to a satisfactory clinical recovery.
- Further research is needed to clarify the pathogenesis of Varicella-Zoster virus-related neurological disorders.