Which of the following diseases is caused by Varicella Zoster?

Appeared in: MP CHO -2021 (Shift 1st)

Explanation

Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV) is a DNA virus belonging to the Herpesviridae family.
Primary infection with VZV results in the clinical syndrome known as varicella, or chickenpox.
Chickenpox is a highly contagious disease, typically affecting children, and is characterized by a widespread vesicular (blister-like) rash.
After the primary infection resolves, the virus becomes latent in the sensory nerve ganglia and can reactivate later in life to cause herpes zoster, also known as shingles.

Option A: Diphtheria is a bacterial infection, not a viral one. It is caused by the toxin-producing bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae.
Option B: Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease, is a chronic infectious disease caused by the slow-growing bacterium Mycobacterium leprae.
Option C: Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the spirochete bacterium Treponema pallidum.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Causative agent of common infectious diseases as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Recognizing the causative agent of chickenpox is fundamental for implementing correct infection control measures, primarily airborne and contact precautions, in a healthcare setting.
Nurses play a key role in educating patients and families about the varicella vaccine, which is the most effective measure to prevent chickenpox and its complications.
Understanding that VZV causes both chickenpox and shingles is crucial for patient assessment, as a history of chickenpox is a prerequisite for developing shingles later in life.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of microbiology.
First, identify the key pathogen in the question stem: 'Varicella Zoster'.
Next, review each option and recall or determine the causative agent for each disease.
Diphtheria is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae (bacterium).
Leprosy is caused by Mycobacterium leprae (bacterium).
Syphilis is caused by Treponema pallidum (bacterium).

Concept Tested & Keywords

Q8mHy0hibGcaCjgKRT-naf

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

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

Practise the full MP CHO -2021 (Shift 1st)

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