Chickenpox
"The treatment of chickenpox should always be indicated by a pediatrician. It is important to avoid the consumption of aspirin to avoid the appearance of Reye's syndrome."
DR. REYES LÓPEZ DE MESA
SPECIALIST. PEDIATRICS DEPARTMENT
What is chickenpox?
Chickenpox is a viral disease characterised by the appearance on the skin of several outbreaks of typical lesions, formed by small papules that turn into vesicles (with liquid content) and which form crusts when they dry.
In most cases it appears in children under 10 years of age, and is a highly contagious disease, especially serious in pregnant women. It is spread by direct contact or through the air.
The virus is found in vesicles and patients are infectious from one day before the appearance of skin lesions until all lesions have crusted over (7-8 days).
Symptoms of chickenpox
Rash and vesicles
The incubation period varies between 7 and 21 days. Then the specific rash appears, characterised by small red papules that almost immediately transform into clear vesicles on a reddish (erythematous) base.
After 24 hours these break up and turn into crusts. Lesions first appear on the trunk, then spread to the face and scalp.
Intense itching
Intense itching (pruritus) is almost always present and it is important to avoid scratching these lesions because it can leave scars. It is important to avoid scratching these lesions because they can leave scars. The severity of the disease can vary from a few lesions and few signs of systemic disease to many hundreds of lesions.
Fever
Fever is high, ranging from 39.5-40 ºC.
Do you have any of these symptoms?
If you suspect that you have any of the above symptoms,
you should consult a medical specialist for a diagnosis.
Causes and prevention of chickenpox
The culprit is the varicella zoster virus, a virus of the herpesvirus family. The first contact with this virus causes chickenpox, leaving lifelong immunity, but the virus can remain dormant in the body and reactivate later, but this time in the form of shingles.
Active prevention, before the onset of the disease, is by vaccination during childhood with the live attenuated virus vaccine, which is given in two doses, one at 15 months and one at 3 years of age.
Complications of chickenpox
The main complication is infection of the skin lesions. A smaller percentage of children may develop Reye's syndrome, associated with aspirin ingestion.
In addition, the central nervous system may be affected in the form of post-infectious encephalitis, usually with cerebellar involvement, and the respiratory system in the form of pneumonia. In the case of infection in pregnant women in the last trimester, it can be especially serious for the newborn and the mother during the delivery period.
How is chickenpox treated?
The treatment of chickenpox is symptomatic. It must be focused to alleviate the itching (pruritus) to avoid the scratching of the injuries and that they do not remain scars. For it local and systemic antipruriginous agents are used, as well as sedation if it is required.
The consumption of aspirin should be avoided to avoid the appearance of Reye's syndrome, treating the fever with other antipyretics.
Acyclovir may be used if complications arise.
Where do we treat it?
IN NAVARRE AND MADRID
The Department of Pediatrics
of the Clínica Universidad de Navarra
All our specialists work exclusively and, in addition, since we have all the technology in the same center, we offer the performance of tests and diagnosis in less than 72 hours.
We have a team of highly qualified professionals to attend the different specialized units: Oncopediatrics, Neuropediatrics, Endocrinopediatrics, Neonatology, etc.
Organized in specialized units
- Neonatology Area.
- Pediatric Endocrinology.
- Pediatric Cardiology.
- Pediatric Neuropediatrics.
- Digestive and pediatric nutrition.
- General and preventive pediatrics.
- Pediatric Pneumology.
Why at the Clinica?
- Comprehensive care of the child.
- Professionals who are experts in the different areas for a better diagnosis and treatment.
- Equipped with the latest technology for newborn care.
Our team of experts in chickenpox
