Varicella zoster virus: vaccination and implications in children with renal failure.

The varicella zoster virus is associated with significant disease in those with chronic kidney disease, both pre- and postrenal transplantation. With the advent of the varicella vaccine, the opportunity to prevent significant morbidity and mortality exists. Despite the secondary immune defects associated with renal failure, the varicella vaccine has been demonstrated to be immunogenic, safe and efficacious in pediatric patients with kidney disease.