Severe VZV Pneumonia in an Unvaccinated RA Patient
Author Information
Author(s): Muacevic Alexander, Adler John R, Mamiya Takahiro, Kobayashi Hironori, Takeuchi Shunta, Tago Mayumi, Ikenouchi Tadasuke
Primary Institution: Handa City Hospital, Handa, JPN
Hypothesis
Can varicella-zoster virus (VZV) reinfection occur in unvaccinated patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treated with JAK inhibitors?
Conclusion
This case highlights the risk of severe VZV infection in unvaccinated RA patients treated with JAK inhibitors and emphasizes the need for vaccination.
Supporting Evidence
- The patient had a history of chickenpox and was unvaccinated against VZV.
- She developed severe pneumonia after exposure to a family member with shingles.
- Despite treatment, her condition rapidly deteriorated to acute respiratory distress syndrome.
Takeaway
A woman with rheumatoid arthritis got very sick from a virus she had as a child because she didn't get vaccinated, showing that even if you've had it before, you can get it again.
Methodology
Case report detailing the clinical course and treatment of a patient with severe VZV pneumonia.
Limitations
The study is based on a single case report, limiting generalizability.
Participant Demographics
52-year-old female with rheumatoid arthritis.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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