CLINICAL FEATURES AND COMPLICATIONS OF CHICKENPOX: PAEDIATRIC ASPECTS AND CURRENT APPROACHES TO TREATMENT
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32689/2663-0672-2025-3-10Keywords:
chickenpox, Varicella-Zoster, vaccination, prevention, antiviral therapy, shingles, complications, postherpetic neuralgiaAbstract
Chickenpox (Varicella) remains a common viral infection caused by the Varicella-Zoster virus. It is highly contagious and usually mild in children, but in adults and immunocompromised individuals, it can be accompanied by serious complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and bacterial skin infections. Reactivation of the virus can lead to shingles, which in turn causes postherpetic neuralgia, significantly reducing the quality of life of patients. Since chickenpox and its complications continue to be a medical problem, it is important to investigate modern approaches to the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of this infection. Research objective. To analyse current data on the aetiology, clinical course and complications of chickenpox, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of preventive measures and treatment methods based on an analysis of the current scientific literature. Materials and methods. A literature search was conducted using the international scientific databases Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar and PubMed, using the keywords ‘Varicella-Zoster Virus’, “Chickenpox”, ‘clinical course of chickenpox’, ‘vaccination against chickenpox’ and others. The assessment of the effectiveness of treatment and prevention was based on an analysis of studies using modern antiviral drugs, vaccines and therapeutic approaches. Survey results and discussion. Chickenpox is caused by the Varicella-Zoster virus (VZV), which is transmitted by airborne droplets. A characteristic clinical feature is a rash that goes through several stages of development, from spots to vesicles and scabs. The disease often occurs in children without serious complications, but in adults, especially those with weakened immune systems, severe forms such as pneumonia, encephalitis and generalised chickenpox can develop. Modern vaccines effectively prevent the disease, reducing the number of complications and the severity of the illness. Conclusions. Chickenpox is a serious infection that can cause significant complications, especially among adults and people with weakened immune systems. Modern methods of prevention, including vaccination, significantly reduce the incidence and severity of the disease. Antiviral therapy and timely treatment of complications are important for reducing the risk of serious consequences, such as postherpetic neuralgia.
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