Varicella is caused by varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It usually occurs in childhood and is characterized by a generalized pruritic vesicular exanthem and fever.1
Constitutional symptoms that develop after onset of rash include malaise, pruritus, anorexia, and listlessness.2
Skin manifestations in varying stages of evolution consist of maculopapules, vesicles, and scabs.2
At first, the lesions contain clear fluid, pustulating and scabbing over a short period of time. Rash initially appears on the trunk and face, quickly spreading to other areas of the body. Successive crops of lesions generally continue over a period of 2 to 4 days. Crusts completely fall off within 1 to 2 weeks after infection begins and can leave a slightly depressed area in the skin.2
