Chickenpox overview

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Michael Maddaleni, B.S.

Chickenpox Microchapters
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Overview
Historical Perspective
Classification
Pathophysiology
Causes
Differentiating Chickenpox from other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Screening
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
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Overview

Chickenpox is the common name for Varicella zoster, and it is classically one of the childhood infectious diseases caught by and survived by almost every child. It is one of the most contagious infectious diseases. The affected child or adult may develop hundreds of itchy, fluid-filled blisters that burst and form crusts. Chickenpox is caused by varicella-zoster, a member of the herpes virus family. The same virus also causes shingles (herpes zoster) in adults.