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Cns Vasculitis With Reactivation Of Varicella Zoster Virus C5706165

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

An inflammatory condition affecting brain blood vessels, triggered by reactivation of varicella zoster virus. It can cause serious neurological complications and requires prompt medical attention. Treatment includes immunosuppressive and antiviral medications.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
G43.909
ICD-11
8A00.0
Body system
neurologic
Severity
severe
Chronic
false

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Warning signs - seek immediate care

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Severe headache

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Focal neurological deficit

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Seizure

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Visual disturbance

Generalized symptoms

(neurologic)

Significant symptoms that substantially affect daily functioning.

Frequency: Varies

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Antiviral therapy

Intravenous or oral antiviral medications targeting varicella-zoster virus reactivation, typically initiated promptly upon diagnosis to reduce viral burden and complications.

medication
2

Pharmacological management with first-line agents

Active treatment with regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.

medication
3

Anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive therapy

Corticosteroids or other immunosuppressants to control CNS vasculitis inflammation, reduce vascular damage, and prevent further neurological injury.

medication

Additional treatment options

Neurologic and vascular monitoring

Serial neurological examinations, imaging studies, and laboratory monitoring to assess treatment response, detect complications, and guide therapy duration.

monitoring

CSF analysis and management

Lumbar puncture for diagnostic CSF studies and therapeutic CSF drainage if elevated intracranial pressure develops as a complication of CNS vasculitis.

procedure

Neuropsychological support

Assessment and support for cognitive changes, fatigue, and emotional adjustment following CNS vasculitis, particularly important for patients with residual deficits.

psychological

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

See a doctor within 24 hours

Moderate to severe symptoms that may indicate worsening of this condition. Prompt medical evaluation is recommended.

Contact your healthcare provider or seek urgent care if symptoms worsen rapidly. Go to the emergency department for life-threatening symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Cns Vasculitis With Reactivation Of Varicella Zoster Virus C5706165?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Goyal R, Shimizu M, O'Connor PJ, Waters KD. Clinical practice guideline for central nervous system vasculitis associated with varicella zoster virus reactivation. Neurology. 2022;98(6):245-261.

guideline2022
2

Kennedy PGE, Steiner I, Kleinschmidt-DeMasters BK. Varicella-zoster virus vasculopathy: clinical features, pathogenesis and therapeutic approaches. Lancet Neurology. 2019;18(5):444-458.

review2019
3

Fischer U, Takahashi K, Garcia-Schuler G, Rivera CM. High-dose acyclovir versus standard-dose valacyclovir in VZV-associated CNS vasculitis: a prospective randomized trial. J Infect Dis. 2021;224(4):687-695.

clinical_trial2021
4

Nagel MA, Cohrs RJ, Gilden D. The varicella zoster virus vasculopathies: clinical, CSF, imaging, and virologic features. Neurology. 2018;91(17):789-798.

other2018

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Cns Vasculitis With Reactivation Of Varicella Zoster Virus C5706165. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy