Measles. Measles, one of the most contagious of all human infections, used to be a very common childhood disease. Most cases resolve without serious complications. In severe cases, however, measles can cause pneumonia, and in about 1 out of 1,000 cases it can lead to encephalitis (inflammation in the brain) or death. The risk for these severe complications is highest in the very young and very old. In pregnant women, measles increases the rates for miscarriage, low...
Read moreRecently, the United States Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices officially recommended that adults older than 60 years of age... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
Symptoms of ChickenpoxThe time between exposure to the virus and eruption of symptoms is called the incubation period. For chickenpox, this period is... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
Both chickenpox (varicella) and shingles (zoster) can usually be diagnosed by symptoms alone. If a diagnosis is still unclear after a physical... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
for Postherpetic NeuralgiaPostherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is difficult to treat. Once PHN develops, a patient may need a multidisciplinary approach that... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
Risk Factors for Chickenpox (Varicella)Between 75 - 90% of chickenpox cases occur in children under 10 years of age. Before the introduction of the... Read more »
Source: ADAM Encyclopedia
for ShinglesThe treatment goals for an acute attack of herpes zoster include:Reduce painReduce discomfortHasten healing of blistersPrevent the... Read more »