Which disease is caused by varicella zoster virus?

Appeared in: CIP Ranchi 2023

Explanation

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) is a member of the herpesvirus family that causes two distinct clinical syndromes.
The primary infection with VZV results in varicella, commonly known as chickenpox.
Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease characterized by a generalized, itchy, vesicular rash.
After the primary infection, the virus remains latent in nerve ganglia and can reactivate later in life to cause herpes zoster (shingles).

Option B: Mumps is caused by the mumps virus, which belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family, not the varicella-zoster virus.
Option C: Rabies is a viral disease caused by the rabies virus, a lyssavirus from the Rhabdoviridae family. It is unrelated to VZV.
Option D: Influenza, or the flu, is caused by influenza viruses, which are part of the Orthomyxoviridae family, not VZV.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Etiology of Infectious Diseases helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Nurses must implement strict airborne and contact precautions for patients with chickenpox to prevent nosocomial spread due to its high contagion.
Patient education is crucial, especially regarding symptomatic relief (e.g., oatmeal baths for itching) and the importance of not using aspirin in children due to the risk of Reye's syndrome.
Recognizing the difference between chickenpox and shingles is vital. While both are caused by VZV, their presentation, patient population, and management strategies differ.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of microbiology and infectious diseases.
First, identify the key term in the question: 'varicella zoster virus'.
Next, recall the diseases associated with this specific virus. Remember that VZV causes two main diseases: chickenpox (primary infection) and shingles (reactivation).
Scan the options to find the disease that matches your knowledge. 'Chicken pox' is listed as an option.
Briefly consider the other options to confirm they are caused by different pathogens (Mumps virus, Rabies virus, Influenza virus) to solidify your choice.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 1 — Subpart A (pp 26-201 of 604) p. 146-148

E6 Medicine Harrison 22e Part 1 p. 1546-1548

E6 Microbiology Essentials Sastry 4e Part 2 p. 102-104

Practise the full CIP Ranchi 2023

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.