Open AccessZoster vaccine-associated primary varicella infection in an immunocompetent host
Author(s) -
Kaoru Harada,
Henry Heaton,
Jason Chen,
Marietta Vázquez,
Jaimie P. Meyer
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
bmj case reports
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.231
H-Index - 26
ISSN - 1757-790X
DOI - 10.1136/bcr-2017-221166
Subject(s) - medicine , rash , varicella zoster virus , chickenpox , virology , white blood cell , immunology , virus , varicella vaccine , chickenpox vaccine , shingles , dermatology , antibody , immunization
A 64-year-old immunocompetent man developed a widespread pruritic and vesicular rash 2 weeks after receiving the zoster vaccine (Zostavax). He had fever, bandaemia with normal total white blood cell count and mild transaminitis. PCR testing of serum and skin was positive for varicella zoster virus (VZV), while serum VZV IgG was negative. The analysis of single nucleotide polymorphism by PCR and sequencing from the skin swab was consistent with the vaccine strain. The patient received 1 week of intravenous acyclovir and was discharged after all lesions had crusted. He continues to do well on follow-up with no significant complications.