Clinical manifestations of varicella-zoster virus infection

Chickenpox and herpes zoster, both caused by the varicella zoster virus, differ in presentation based on the immune status of the host. The clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of varicella zoster virus infection are important for the clinician to be cognizant of because of the high incidence of complications in humans. These aspects of varicella, as well as possible complications of chickenpox and zoster, are discussed in this review of the current literature.