Severe Chickenpox in Adult: Man Recovers from Life-Threatening Complications
Can Tho General Hospital successfully treated a 32-year-old unvaccinated man from Vinh Long province who developed severe chickenpox complications, including pneumonia, hepatitis, and blood clotting disorders. According to hospital reports released June 20, the patient recovered after nearly a month of intensive care in the Intensive Care Unit – Detoxification Department (HSTC-CĐ).
How did the severe chickenpox case progress?
The patient became ill one week after his wife and children contracted chickenpox. For the first three days, he experienced widespread blisters and lethargy without a fever. Despite seeking external treatment, his condition did not improve.
The man was transferred to Can Tho General Hospital on the fourth day. Hospital records indicate he presented with blisters in various stages of development, many containing pus, along with stomatitis, anorexia, and diarrhea. Within 10 hours of admission to the infectious disease department, the patient developed acute respiratory failure that did not respond to oxygen therapy, requiring a transfer to the HSTC-CĐ.
What treatments were required for recovery?
Upon entering the ICU, the patient exhibited severe respiratory failure, blood concentration, tachycardia, and hypotension. Medical staff utilized endotracheal intubation and an invasive ventilator with high PEEP and FiO2 levels, according to the hospital.
The treatment regimen included intravenous acyclovir, continuous hemodialysis, and the CPAP 40/40 method to open the lungs. To manage blood clotting disorders, the hospital administered blood product transfusions. Nursing staff performed regular position changes to prevent the worsening of ulcers located in the patient’s oral, nasal, and ear mucosa.
The patient’s respiratory status improved after nearly a month of intensive treatment. The hospital reports that the endotracheal tube was successfully removed on the 25th day, and the patient was moved out of the ICU on the 27th day.
Why is chickenpox dangerous for adults?
The Ministry of Health defines chickenpox as an acute infectious disease caused by the Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV). It spreads primarily through respiratory droplets or direct contact with blisters. While often mild in school-aged children, the Ministry reports an increasing trend of severe cases in adults.
Severe progression in adults may lead to internal complications such as pneumonia, myocarditis, meningitis, and transverse myelitis, which could result in death. Those at highest risk include pregnant women, newborns, and immunocompromised individuals, though the virus can also affect healthy adults.
How is the virus prevented?
The Ministry of Health states that chickenpox is preventable via a live attenuated vaccine. This vaccine is prescribed for all children over the age of one.
What may happen next for adult patients?
Given the increasing trend of severe adult cases, health officials may emphasize the importance of vaccination for non-immune adults. Patients presenting with early blisters and lethargy could face rapid deterioration if not monitored for acute respiratory failure. Future cases involving high-risk groups, such as pregnant women or the immunocompromised, may require similarly aggressive ICU interventions to prevent mortality.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is chickenpox transmitted to others?
According to the Ministry of Health, the disease is transmitted primarily through respiratory droplets or by coming into direct contact with the blisters of an infected person.
What are the potential internal complications of severe chickenpox?
The Ministry of Health identifies pneumonia, myocarditis, meningitis, and transverse myelitis as potential internal complications that can lead to death.
Who is most susceptible to severe chickenpox infections?
Severe cases are more common in individuals with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, newborns, and some healthy adults.
Do you believe adult vaccination programs should be more widely promoted to prevent severe complications?