Maculopapular rash presentation of febrile illness in an adult with Varicella zoster virus infection

Abstract

Varicella zoster usually manifests as maculopapular rash (MPR), which later progresses to vesicle. It can also manifest as MPR without progression to the vesicle stage. This atypical manifestation is more common in adults and immunocompromised patients. A 30-year-old female presented with high-grade fever and rash over face and body for 5 days. She was diagnosed to have Varicella zoster virus (VZV) infection by positive VZV immunoglobulin M enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and polymerase chain reaction. We present this case to increase awareness among clinicians on the atypical manifestations of VZV and prevent complications by early diagnosis.

Keywords

• Clinical awareness
• maculopapular rash
• molecular diagnosis
• Varicella zoster virus