Varicella Zoster Virus May Be An Underdiagnosed Cause of Stroke

The varicella virus is the cause of chickenpox. It is well established as a cause of strokes in children, in whom strokes are very rare, and also in adults with chickenpox, who are much more likely to have that and other serious complications. The virus causes a chronic infection, which reactivates in immunosuppressed persons and in the elderly, causing herpes zoster. Reactivation occurs earlier in those who had chickenpox especially early in life (<5 years old). Herpes zoster ophthalmicus (in the eye) is particularly associated with stroke.

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cast 01-07-06