Clinical Case Database / Category: Patient Management

Chickenpox in pregnancy

Publication details

Dr Janine Simpson, Dr Simone Vella
Foundation Years Journal, volume 8, issue 7, p.20 (123Doc Education, London, July 2014)

Abstract

We discuss a case relating to the development of primary varicella zoster infection, known as Chickenpox during pregnancy. This is an uncommon scenario within the United Kingdom Caucasian population, but one where incidence is increasing due to migrating populations. This case highlights the importance of a sound understanding of primary varicella zoster syndrome during reproductive age for clinicians especially those in General Practice, Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Occupational Health. Knowledge includes prevention methods, diagnosis and subsequent management, which play a role in preventing the attributed significant morbidity and mortality attributed to it. This article will focus on these issues and provide a resource to clinicians.

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Authors

Dr Janine Simpson

ST1 Community Sexual & Reproductive Health
NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde
Princess Royal Maternity Hospital
Alexandria Parade, Glasgow, G31 2ER
Janine.simpson@hotmail.co.uk

Dr Simone Vella

Obstetrics & Gynaecology Consultant
NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde
Princess Royal Maternity Hospital
Alexandria Parade, Glasgow, G31 2ER
simone.vella@ggc.scot.nhs.uk

References

1. Image courtesy of Dr Simone Vella.
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5. Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Green-top Guidelines. Chickenpox in Pregnancy – Guideline 13. Sept 2007.
6. Department of Health. Immunisation against infectious disease. December 2013.
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13. Romero Sanchez J, Leon Ruiz AM, Romero Sanchez I. Syndrome of fetal varicella secondary to maternal varicella in the 26th week of gestation. An Esp Pediatr 1997;46:77–8.
14. World Health Organisation. Epidemiology of chicken-pox. Weekly Epidemiology Record 1992;67:118-19.
15. Boumahni B, Kauffmann E, Lafitte A, Randrianaivo H, Fourmaintraux A. Congenital varicella: limits of prenatal diagnosis. Arch Pediatr 2005;12:1361–3.
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About the Clinical Cases Database

T​he Foundation Years Clinical Cases Database is​ a selection of 600 peer-reviewed clinical cases in the field of patient safety and clinical practice, specifically focused on the clinical information needs of junior doctors, based around the Foundation Year Curriculum programme (MMC). The cases have been chosen to align with the Foundation Year Curriculum.

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