Varicella-Zoster Virus
Date: 2 سال قبل
author: AmirAbad
Varicella-Zoster Virus
Clinical Manifestations
Primary varicella-zoster virus infection causes
varicella (chickenpox). Reactivation of latent virus (usually in adults) causes
herpes zoster (shingles), manifesting as vesicular rash with a dermatomal
distribution and acute neuritis.
Pathogenesis
Varicella-zoster virus is usually transmitted by
droplets and replicates initially in the nasopharynx. In seronegative
individuals, viremia and chickenpox ensue. Latency is established in dorsal
root ganglia, and virus reactivation results in virion transport down sensory
nerves.
Host Defenses
As with herpes simplex virus, interferon and cellular
and humoral immunity are important defenses. Reactivated virus can cause
disseminated disease in immunocompromised individuals.
Epidemiology
Varicella-zoster virus is highly contagious; about 95
percent of adults show serologic evidence of infection.
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