perinatal infections- VZV

Question 1

VZV pathogenesis

Answer 1

is a DNA virus that is the causative agent of chicken pox and herpes zoster.
* It is spread by respiratory droplets, >90% of women are immune.
* Fetal infection: Transplacental infection rate is as low as 2%, with 25% mortality

Question 2

Congenital varicella syndrome is characterized by:

Answer 2

1. “zigzag” skin lesions
2. mulberry skin spots
3. optic atrophy, Cataracts, chorioretinitis
4. extremity hypoplasia
5. and motor and sensory defects.

Question 3

The greatest neonatal risk is if maternal rash appears between

Answer 3

5 days antepartum and 2 days postpartum.
No passive IgG antibodies are present

Question 4

Prevention includes

Answer 4

administration of VZIG (varicella zoster immune globulin) to a susceptible pregnant
within 4 days of exposure.

Question 5

Treatment

Answer 5

. IV antiviral treatment with acyclovir