NEET PG High-Yield: Chickenpox (Varicella)
Varicella is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV).
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Causative Agent | Varicella-Zoster Virus (DNA virus, Herpesviridae family). |
| Transmission | Droplet infection and direct contact with vesicle fluid. |
| Incubation Period | 14–16 days (range: 10–21 days). |
| Communicable Period | 1-2 days before rash to 5 days after appearance of first crop. |
High-Yield NEET PG Pearls:
- Rash Characteristics: “Pleomorphism” (presence of lesions in different stages: macules, papules, vesicles, and crusts simultaneously).
- Distribution: Centripetal (more on the trunk than the limbs).
- Complications: Reye’s syndrome (associated with aspirin use), secondary bacterial infection (Staph/Strep), and pneumonia in adults.
- Prevention: Live attenuated vaccine (Oka strain).
- Treatment: Acyclovir (indicated in immunocompromised or high-risk adults).