How is Chickenpox detected?
Chickenpox is a very contagious disease caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It results in an itchy rash that starts on the chest, back, and face, and then spreads across the body. Chickenpox is a serious concern, especially for pregnant women, babies, teens, adults, and those with weakened immune systems. They are more vulnerable to the disease due to their reduced ability to fight off infections. In this article, we will explore the different methods used for chickenpox diagnosis.
Diagnosis of Chickenpox
A doctor can usually diagnose chickenpox based on the rash it causes. However, lab tests can also be used to confirm the diagnosis. These tests include blood tests or examining a tissue sample from affected skin. The following chicken pox diagnostic tests can be performed:
- The most accurate way to confirm a diagnosis of chickenpox is through a test called polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which detects the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) in skin lesions such as blisters or scabs. These samples provide the best results for testing.
- Other methods for confirming chickenpox include a test called direct fluorescent antibody assay (DFA) and viral culture. However, these tests are not as sensitive as PCR and may take longer to produce results.
- Testing for IgM antibodies, while less sensitive than PCR, can indicate a recent VZV infection. However, these tests cannot differentiate between a primary infection, reinfection, or reactivation of the virus. IgM tests also have a higher chance of yielding inaccurate results.
Consider getting a chicken pox diagnostic test through laboratory analysis, which is advisable to:
- Verify suspected varicella cases.
- Validate varicella as the source of outbreaks.
- Authenticate varicella in severe or atypical cases (hospitalizations or fatalities).
- Establish susceptibility to varicella.
- Ascertain whether suspected adverse events related to vaccination were attributed to the vaccine strain of VZV.
Submission of specimens is an option for cases involving suspected adverse events related to vaccines, which may encompass:
- Skin rashes that manifest between 7 to 42 days post-vaccination.
- Concerns regarding the potential transmission of the vaccine virus to others.
- The occurrence of herpes zoster in an individual who has undergone vaccination.
- Any other unfavourable incident.
Providers dealing with chickenpox diagnosis should reach out to their local health department to facilitate the submission of samples for testing.
Conclusion
To safeguard against chickenpox, obtaining the chickenpox vaccine is essential. This applies to individuals across all age groups, from children to adults. Ensure you receive two doses of the chickenpox vaccine if you have never had the virus or if your health insurance plan did not previously cover it.