Understanding Chicken Pox: Causes, Types and Treatment

Chickenpox, or varicella, is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily impacts children but can also occur in adults as well. The disease is caused by the varicella-zoster virus also stands for VZC, which belongs to the herpesvirus family. Although, chickenpox is generally a mild illness in children but it can have severe consequences in adults, pregnant women and individuals with really weak immune systems. This blogpost will delve into the causes, types, genesis and treatment of chickenpox in a detailed manner. 

Let’s dive in...

Main Cause of Chickenpox

The primary cause of chickenpox is the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), a member of the Herpesviridae family. VZV is a double stranded DNA virus which can remain dormant in the body for years after initial infection. Chickenpox is spread through respiratory droplets when an infected individual cough, wheezes, sneezes or communicates. The virus can also be contracted through direct contact with the fluid from the blisters that develop on the skin of the person. 

Once exposed to the virus, the incubation period typically lasts between 10-21 days with most individuals developing symptoms around 14-16 days after the exposure. The disease is most contagious from about 1-2 days before the rash appears until the blisters have crusted over the skin surface.

Types of Chickenpox

Chickenpox presents itself in different forms, depending on the age and immune status of the individuals. There are two main types of chickenpox – primary chickenpox and secondary chickenpox. 

1. Primary Chickenpox: This is the most common type of chickenpox, especially in children who are more prone and susceptible to the virus. In Primary Chickenpox, the individual has no prior exposure to the varicella-zoster virus and the body has not developed the immunity. The infection follows the typical progression of fever, malaise and a key characteristic itchy rash that appears in different stages.
2. Secondary Chickenpox: Secondary chickenpox happens when an individual who has previously been infected with the varicella-zoster virus gets re-infected or experiences a reactivation of the virus. This happens more frequently in adults and immunocompromised individuals. In these cases, the virus reactivates from its dormant state in the sensory nerve ganglia leading to conditions like shingles. Though shingles and chickenpox both are caused by VZV, they manifest in the body differently. While shingles causes painful, localised rashes typically in older adults.

Genesis of Chickenpox

The metamorphosis of chickenpox begins when the varicella-zoster enters the body primarily through the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract before spreading to the lymph nodes where it begins to multiply. From there onwards, it enters the bloodstream and spreads to various parts of the body which includes the skin which causes the appearance of vesicular rash.   

Viral Spread and Immune Response 

During the initial infection, VZV is carried by the bloodstream to the skin where it infects skin cells. The virus triggers an immune response leading to the formation of vesicles or blisters filled with fluid. These vesicles are the hallmark of chickenpox and are highly contagious. The immune system mounts a response against the virus and the rash eventually scabs over as the immune system controls the infection. 

In most individuals, the immune system is able to clear the infection and the symptoms resolve within 5-10 days. However, the virus does not disappear entirely. Instead, it enters a latent phase, where it resides in the dorsal root ganglia of the spinal cord. The virus may remain dormant for years before reactivating as shingles especially in older adults or individuals with compromised immunity. 

Symptoms of Chickenpox

Some of the classic symptoms of chicken pox include:

• Rash: The most noticeable symptom is the rash, which initially begins as red spots that develop into fluid-filled vesicles. The rash typically starts on the torso and spreads to the limbs and face. The vesicles eventually dry out and form scabs on the skin surface.
• Fever: Patients often develop a mild to moderate fever typically around 101 Fahrenheit to 102 Fahrenheit 
• Fatigue and malaise: A general feeling of tiredness, weakness and discomfort are common 
• Itching: The rash on the body is typically very itchy which can be severe and cause immense discomfort. 
• Headache: Some individuals have lingering headache which goes from mild to moderate. 
• Loss of appetite: Many individuals lose their appetite owing to the fever and general malaise associate with the disease. 

Diagnosis of Chickenpox

Chickenpox is usually diagnosed based on clinical presentation specifically the characteristic rash. However, in cases where the diagnosis is uncertain lab tests can be used to confirm the presence of varicella-zoster virus. Some of the key tests are:

1. Polymerase Chain Reaction: PCR short for polymerase chain reaction tests blood, lesions or swabs can detect the presence of VZV DNA and confirms the diagnosis.
2. Serology: Detection of antibodies against VZV can indicate current or past infection. IgM antibodies typically appear early during infection while IgG antibodies indicate past exposure or vaccination.
3. Direct Fluorescent Antibody Test: The test involves taking samples from skin lesions to detect VZV antigens.

Treatment of Chickenpox

For most people, chickenpox is self-limiting. Which means it resolves on its own with required supportive care. However, treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing further complications. Treatment can include:

1. Antihistamines: Over-the-counter medicinal antihistamines may be recommended to aid reducing itching.
2. Calamine Lotion: Application of calamine lotion to the rash can sooth itching and promote healing.
3. Acetaminophen: This is often used to reduce fever and reduce discomfort.
4. Antiviral Medication: In some severe cases, particularly adults or immunocompromised adults’ antiviral medication is also prescribed.
5. Hydration: Adequate supply is the key since fever and loss of appetite can lead to severe dehydration.

Conclusion

Despite being seen as a mild illness, chickenpox can lead to significant complications in some individuals. If you or your loved ones want to explore the top-notch treatment by the general practitioners and paediatricians at Paras Health. Our facilities have the most sought-after treatment plans, doctors, support staff and advanced tools and machinery to assist the management & treatment. In case you need to talk to our health experts, please reach us at 080-35358735.