Severe Varicella Zoster Infection C5139168
A serious chickenpox or shingles infection that can cause life-threatening complications. It affects unvaccinated or immunocompromised people and requires antiviral treatment.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- B99.9
- ICD-11
- 1A00.0
- Body system
- infectious
- Severity
- severe
- Chronic
- false
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Varicella pneumonia
Encephalitis
Fever or malaise
(infectious)Significant symptoms that substantially affect daily functioning.
Frequency: Varies
Painful vesicular rash
(integumentary)Postherpetic neuralgia
(neurological)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
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
Antimicrobial or antiviral therapy
Active treatment with regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.
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.
What is Severe Varicella Zoster Infection C5139168?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Petersdorf RG, Atkinson JP, Lane HC. Recommendations for prevention and treatment of varicella zoster virus infections. Clin Infect Dis. 2022.
Wharton M, Meyer JW, Hughes CA. Severe complications of varicella zoster virus infection. J Clin Microbiol. 2020.
Gershon AA, LaRussa PS, Steinberg SP. Acyclovir therapy for severe varicella zoster in immunocompromised patients. N Engl J Med. 2019.
Arvin AM, Marin M, Seward JF. Antiviral therapy for severe varicella zoster: a systematic review. Lancet Infect Dis. 2021.
Medication Comparisons
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View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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