Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) are two of the human herpesviruses. The others include herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 1, HSV type 2, and cytomegalovirus (CMV). In a series of two articles, we review the clinical diseases caused by VZV and
EBV infections; we pay particular attention to the manifestations of these two
viral infections in immunosuppressed and immunocompromised patients. In addition to the clinical reviews, each of the two articles begins with a brief discussion of the molecular aspects of VZV and EBV, respectively; this introduction describes features of the genome and immunogenic
viral proteins which have clinical relevance. A model for pathogenesis is included. The first review concerns VZV
infections. Recent data about the DNA sequence of the entire VZV genome are included, as well as a review of the VZV
glycoproteins. Primary VZV
infection (
chickenpox) and VZV reactivation (
zoster) are described in detail in both healthy individuals and people with
cancer. The decade-long VZV
vaccine trials in children with
leukemia receive special emphasis because they have engendered considerable interest and debate. The second review (published here) covers
EBV infections. This virus has been implicated in the causation of a wide variety of human hematological and oncological disorders, besides classical
infectious mononucleosis. In particular,
Burkitt's lymphoma,
nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and
lymphoproliferative disorders are strongly associated with
EBV infection of the transformed cells. In addition, immunologically mediated
cytopenias occasionally follow
EBV infection. Finally, treatment regimens with
antiviral chemotherapy and other agents are discussed for both VZV and
EBV infections.