Varicella zoster infection in the immunocompromised child.

PURPOSE: To describe varicella zoster virus infection in the immunocompromised child and provide guidelines to decrease the risk of infection and complications for these children.

POPULATION: Children infected with varicella zoster virus, particularly those with a compromised immune system.

CONCLUSIONS

Varicella zoster virus infection can have serious consequences for children with malignancies and infection with the human immunodeficiency virus, as well as children on chronic steroid therapy.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: The advanced practice nurse often is responsible for identifying those children at increased risk for VZV infection and its complications and for planning and implementing interventions to decrease the risks to the immunocompromised child.