Primary
varicella-
zoster (VZ)
infection is rare in adults, but the rate of morbidity and mortality is higher than in children.
Pneumonia is the most common complication of primary VZ
infection in adults. Moreover,
varicella pneumonia associated with
acute renal failure and acute
encephalopathy is very rare. This study reports on a case of disseminated VZ
infection successfully treated with
acyclovir. The patient was otherwise healthy and denied previous systemic or
infectious disease. The initial diagnosis was
varicella pneumonia. However, multiple organ involvement subsequently was found in several organs, including the kidney, brain, lung, liver, blood, and skin. The reactivation of VZ
infection was strongly suspected. Abnormal renal and liver function and
thrombocytopenia also were noted. The patient with
chickenpox was treated successfully with
acyclovir without complication. In conclusion, multiple organ involvement is a rare complication of VZ
infection in adults. In the severe case presented here, adequate intravenous
acyclovir administration and close observation of the general condition were essential for successfully treating disseminated VZ
infection without complications.