Multi-organ complications associated with adult varicella zoster virus infection: Case report

• Published in: Medicinski pregled Vol. 77; no. 7-8; pp. 257 - 261
• Main Authors: Mutibaric, Karla, Djuric, Aleksandar, Djuric, Mirna
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 2024
• ISSN: 0025-8105; 1820-7383
• DOI: 10.2298/MPNS2408257M

Introduction. The varicella-zoster virus is the causative agent of chickenpox, a disease that predominantly affects the pediatric population. Although the condition typically follows a benign course, it can lead to prolonged and multisystem involvement in both immunocompromised and immunocompetent, adults. This paper aims to present a case of an adult patient with pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, antiphospholipid syndrome, liver lesions, and thrombocytopenia following exposure to the virus, highlighting the increased risk of complications in adulthood. Case Report. A 25-year-old female was admitted to the Institute for Pulmonary Diseases of Vojvodina with fever, fatigue, malaise, and the onset of exanthema accompanied by dyspnea. The patient had no history of chronic diseases but was previously hospitalized during pregnancy due to eclampsia. Clinical findings and serological analyses confirmed a primary varicella-zoster virus infection. Chest radiography revealed pathognomonic bilateral nodular pneumonia, warranting further radiological evaluation due to the severity of the findings. Elevated D-dimer levels raised suspicion of pulmonary embolism, which was subsequently confirmed through computed tomography pulmonary angiography. While adult age and history of smoking were identified as risk factors, the extent of the clinical findings prompted immunological testing, leading to a diagnosis of antiphospholipid syndrome. Conclusion. This case underscores the importance of early recognition and comprehensive management of varicellazoster pneumonia. A multidisciplinary approach is essential to ensure favorable outcomes in patients with severe complications.