Varicella myelitis digital illustration

Varicella myelitis Save


ICD-10 code: B01.12

Disease category: B01.1: Varicella encephalitis, myelitis and encephalomyelitis

What is Varicella Myelitis?
Varicella myelitis is a rare but serious complication of chickenpox or varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection. It is characterized by inflammation of the spinal cord, which can cause pain, weakness, and sensory disturbances.
Symptoms of Varicella Myelitis
The symptoms of varicella myelitis typically start a few weeks after the initial chickenpox infection. They can include:
  • Pain or stiffness in the back or neck
  • Weakness or paralysis in the arms or legs
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms, legs, or torso
  • Bowel or bladder dysfunction
  • Fever
Diagnosis of Varicella Myelitis
A diagnosis of varicella myelitis is usually made with a combination of clinical symptoms and laboratory tests. A doctor may perform a physical examination and order blood tests, a spinal tap, or an MRI to confirm the diagnosis.
Risk Factors for Varicella Myelitis
Varicella myelitis is more common in adults than children. Other risk factors can include:
  1. Immune system disorders, such as HIV or cancer
  2. Previous radiation therapy
  3. Transplant recipients
  4. Use of immunosuppressive medications
Prevention of Varicella Myelitis
The best way to prevent varicella myelitis is to get vaccinated against chickenpox. The vaccine is recommended for children and adults who have not had chickenpox or the vaccine.
Conclusion
Varicella myelitis is a rare but serious complication of chickenpox or VZV infection. It is important to be aware of the symptoms and risk factors, and to seek medical attention if you experience any of the symptoms. Vaccination is the best way to prevent chickenpox and, therefore, varicella myelitis.

Treatment of Varicella myelitis:

Treatment Options for Varicella Myelitis
Varicella myelitis is a rare condition that occurs when the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infects the spinal cord. It can cause a range of symptoms, including weakness, numbness, and pain. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available to help manage the symptoms and speed up recovery.

1. Antiviral Medications

Antiviral medi...

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