Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV):One Pathogen with Multiple Clinical Manifestations

Varicella zoster virus (VZV) causes two clinically distinct forms of disease, varicella and herpes zoster. These forms can each present with multiple manifestations ranging from lesions including primary chickenpox or shingles to a diverse spectrum of neurologic complications including aseptic meningitis and encephalitis. This workshop will discuss the clinical spectrum of VZV infection as well as laboratory testing for VZV.

Learning Objectives:

1. Describe the general biology of human herpesviruses.

2. Summarize the transmission, epidemiology, and diverse disease manifestations of VZV infections.

3. Explore the laboratory methods used to diagnose the various stages of VZV infection.