Author's details
- Dr. Khashau Eleburuike
- MBBS (Ilorin) MSc. Global Health Karolinska Institute.
- Resident doctor in family medicine in Northern Sweden.
Reviewer's details
- Dr. Gboyega Olarinoye
- MBBS, FMCP.
- Dermatologist FMC Keffi Nassarawa State. Nigeria
Chickenpox (Varicella)
Background
Chickenpox in darker-skinned individuals typically presents with the classic a bit lighter than the skin colour, itchy vesicular rash, which may be harder to spot on darker skin tones, particularly in the early stages. The rash usually starts on the face and trunk and spreads to the limbs, accompanied by fever and fatigue. Treatment involves symptom management, including antihistamines for itching, acetaminophen for fever, and calamine lotion for soothing the skin, with antiviral medications like acyclovir recommended for severe cases or those at high risk of complications.
References
- Chicken pox. Available at: https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSitUxudd-INKGTGyzXNKBx1O19Ebu35hcvbQ&usqp=CAU. Accessed -02-16, 2024.
- BREUER, Judith; FIFER, Helen. Chickenpox. BMJ clinical evidence, 2011, 2011.
- HAMBLETON, Sophie. Chickenpox. Current opinion in infectious diseases, 2005, 18.3: 235-240.
- Medically Reviewed by Melinda Ratini, Written by R. Morgan Griffin. What’s the Difference Between Smallpox and Chickenpox? 2023; Available at: https://www.webmd.com/children/vaccines/smallpox-chickenpox-differences. Accessed -02-16, 2024.