Falla de inmunoglobulina específica varicela zoster en prevenir varicela neonatal: revisión a propósito de un caso clínico

La varicela neonatal es una patología grave. En Chile recientemente se incorporó la vacuna varicela al programa nacional de inmunizaciones, por lo que es aún es esperable que ocurra transmisión vertical. El manejo en el recién nacido incluye inmunoglobulina específica para virus varicela zoster cuando la madre inicia una varicela periparto. Presentamos el caso clínico de un neonato que cursó con una varicela grave pese a haber recibido profilaxis con inmunoglobulina específica. Se realizó una revisión de la literatura sobre varicela neonatal para sugerir recomendaciones de manejo. El uso de inmunoglobulina específica para virus varicela zoster, como profilaxis a un recién nacido expuesto, disminuye el riesgo de varicela neonatal pero no lo elimina.

Neonatal chickenpox is a serious pathology. In Chile, the varicella vaccine was recently incorporated into the national immunization program, so vertical transmission is still expected. Newborn management includes specific immunoglobulin for varicella zoster virus when the mother initiates peripartum chickenpox. We present a case of a newborn who has severe chickenpox despite having received prophylaxis with immunoglobulin, and a review of the literature on neonatal chickenpox was carried out to suggest management recommendations. The use of specific immunoglobulin for varicella zoster virus as prophylaxis in an exposed newborn reduces the risk of neonatal chickenpox but does not eliminate it.

Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) and viral keratouveitis – unraveling the mystery

To demonstrate viral proteins/inflammatory cytokines in a patient with unilateral keratouveitis. Retrospective case report. A 70-year-old Asian-Indian male presented with acute onset of blurring of vision in the left eye (OS) of 2 days duration. He had was coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-positive 3 months earlier. He had undergone cataract surgery/retinal laser photocoagulation in both the eyes. The corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) (Snellen) in the right eye (RE) (OD) and left eye (LE) (OS) was 20/20 and 20/80, respectively. OS showed decreased corneal sensation, Descemet’s folds, mild stromal edema, and fine and pigmented keratic precipitates with anterior chamber 1+ flare and 1+ cells. Fundus evaluation showed scattered laser marks in the OD and temporal sectoral laser marks in OS. He was diagnosed with viral keratouveitis in OS. Tear samples were collected on Schirmer’s strips and tear wash for mass spectrometry and cytokines, which had 368 and 451 viral proteins in the RE and LE, respectively, using nano liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry, which were more than controls. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and varicella zoster virus proteins were detected. Cytokine analysis using flow cytometer analysis showed higher inflammation in OS as compared to OD. The patient was treated with oral acyclovir and topical steroids and resulted in resolution of his keratouveitis. SARS-CoV-2 proteins were present in the tear sample 3 months after COVID-19. The presence of viral proteins does not indicate causality

Síndrome de Ramsay Hunt en paciente epiléptico en Santander, Colombia: Reporte de caso / Ramsay Hunt Syndrome in an epileptic patient in Santander, Colombia: Case report

El Síndrome de Ramsay Hunt es una entidad infrecuente, con una incidencia de 5 por cada 100.000 personas por año. Esta condición se caracteriza por una reactivación del virus de la varicela-zoster en el nervio facial. Su diagnóstico implica un reto para el médico puesto que suele ser netamente clínico, con la aparición de una triada consistente en: otalgia, parálisis facial ipsilateral y vesículas en el canal auditivo. El objetivo del artículo es presentar el caso de una mujer de 49 años de edad, con antecedente de epilepsia en tratamiento anticonvulsivante, quien ingresa con la triada clínica antes descrita, asociada a visión borrosa derecha y vértigo. La paciente fue tratada con antivirales y corticoides orales, presentando una resolución clínica favorable dado una reducción de más del 50% de las lesiones cutáneas. No se identificaron diferencias respecto a la presentación clínica de este síndrome al compararse con pacientes no epilépticos.

Ramsay Hunt Syndrome is a rare entity, with an incidence of 5 per 100,000 people per year. This condition is characterized by a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus in the facial nerve. Its diagnosis implies a challenge for the physician since it is usually a clinical diagnosis, with the appearance of a clinical triad consisting of: otalgia, ipsilateral facial paralysis and vesicles in the ear canal. The objective of the article is to present the case of a 49-year-old woman, with a history of epilepsy receiving anticonvulsant treatment, who was admitted with the aforementioned clinical triad, associated with blurred right vision and vertigo. The patient was treated with oral antiviral management and oral corticosteroids, presenting a favorable clinical resolution given a reduction of more than 50% of the skin lesions. No differences were identified regarding the clinical presentation of this syndrome when compared with non-epileptic patients.

Rehabilitación protésica en defecto ocular provocado por herpes zóster

El herpes zóster es el cuadro clínico constituido por las manifestaciones dermatológicas (erupción vesiculosa) y neurológica (dolor). Es la expresión de la recurrencia del virus varicela-zóster latente en los ganglios sensitivos, su aparición se favorece por el envejecimiento y la inmunosupresión con una prevalencia que se estima en un 20 %. Se describe los pasos clínicos para la confección de una prótesis ocular en el mejoramiento estético a un paciente con defecto ocular en ojo izquierdo provocado por herpes zoster. Se trata de un paciente masculino de piel blanca de 50 años de edad, que acudió a la consulta de prótesis del Policlínico Universitario Julio Antonio Mella de la provincia Camagüey remitido del Servicio de Oculoplastia del Hospital Universitario Manuel Ascunce Domenech con diagnóstico de defecto ocular izquierdo por evisceración como consecuencias de infección por herpes zoster y antecedente de inmunodepresión. El paciente expuso que la pérdida ocular fue por las complicaciones que se fueron sucediendo en la medida que se agravó su cuadro clínico. Además, refirió que presentaba dolor en la zona y que le irradiaba a la cabeza y que le preocupaba su estética. Se determinó la elaboración de una prótesis ocular acrílica para mejorar el aspecto estético, lo cual permitió que el paciente mejorara su autoestima y calidad de vida.

Herpes zoster is the clinical picture constituted by dermatological (vesicular rash) and neurological (pain) manifestations. It is the expression of the recurrence of the latent varicella-zoster virus in the sensitive ganglia, its appearance is favored by aging and immunosuppression with a prevalence estimated at 20%. We describe the clinical steps for the fabrication of an ocular prosthesis for the aesthetic improvement of a patient with ocular defect in the left eye caused by herpes zoster. This is a 50-year-old male patient with white skin, who came to the prosthesis consultation of the Julio Antonio Mella University Polyclinic in Camagüey province, referred from the Oculoplasty Service of the Manuel Ascunce Domenech University Hospital with a diagnosis of left ocular defect due to evisceration as a consequence of herpes zoster infection and a history of immunosuppression. The patient explained that the ocular loss was due to the complications that occurred as his clinical condition worsened. In addition, he reported that he had pain in the area that radiated to the head and that he was concerned about his esthetics. It was decided to make an acrylic ocular prosthesis to improve the esthetic aspect, which allowed the patient to improve his self-esteem and quality of life.

Pole-to-pole involvement of varicella zoster virus reactivation following COVID-19 vaccination

The aim of this study is to report the clinical features, imaging findings including confocal imaging, corneal nerve fiber analysis, and management outcomes in a series of three cases of varicella zoster virus (VZV) reactivation following one dose of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination. This was a retrospective and observational study. All the patients who developed uveitis post-vaccination were pooled together. Patients who had VZV reactivation were included. Two cases had polymerase chain reaction positive for VZV from aqueous humor. At the time of presentation, IgG and IgM spike protein antibodies for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) were tested. Out of this pool, three patients with classical features to describe pole-to-pole manifestations were chosen. A 36-year-old lady with post-vaccination sclerokeratouveitis associated with reactivation of herpes zoster ophthalmicus, a 56-year-old lady with post-vaccination acute anterior uveitis associated with herpes zoster ophthalmicus, and a 43-year-old gentleman with post-vaccination acute retinal necrosis were included. We present a possible link between anti-SARS-CoV-2 virus vaccination and varicella zoster reactivation in these patients and also describe the clinical features, imaging findings including confocal imaging, corneal nerve fiber analysis, and management with detailed discussion.

Choroidal lesions in varicella zoster virus uveitis

Purpose: To evaluate choroidal lesions with spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD?OCT) scan in varicella zoster virus (VZV) uveitis. Methods: VZV?uveitis cases which underwent OCT scan for choroidal lesions were studied. SD?OCT scan passing through these lesions was studied in detail. Subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) during active and resolved stages was studied. Angiogaphic features were studied where available. Results: Thirteen out of 15 cases had same?sided herpes zoster ophthalmicus skin rashes. All except three patients had old or active kerato?uveitis. All eyes demonstrated clear vitreous and a single or multiple hypopigmented orangish?yellow choroidal lesions. The number of lesions remained unchanged during the follow?up on clinical examination. SD?OCT over lesions (n = 11) showed choroidal thinning (n = 5), hyporeflective choroidal elevation during active inflammation (n = 3), transmission effects (n = 4), and ellipsoid zone disruption (n = 7). The mean change in SFCT (n = 9) after resolution of the inflammation was 26.3 ?m (range: 3–90 ?m). Fundus fluorescein angiography showed iso?fluorescence over lesions in all (n = 5), but indocyanine green angiography (n = 3) showed hypofluorescence at lesions. Mean follow?up was 1.38 years (range: 3 months–7 years). De?novo appearance of choroidal lesion during the first relapse of VZV?uveitis was captured in one case. Conclusion: VZV?uveitis can cause focal or multifocal hypopigmented choroidal lesions with thickening or scarring of choroidal tissue, depending on the disease activity.

Zoster sine herpete después de infección leve por SARS-CoV-2 / Zoster sine herpete after mild SARS-CoV-2 infection

El SARS-CoV-2 es un virus de afectación sistémica que impacta con gran intensidad en el sistema inmunológico; esto permite que virus de naturaleza latente, como el virus de Varicela Zoster (VVZ), tengan oportunidad de reactivarse y agravar el cuadro respiratorio con afectaciones cutáneas, mucosas y neurológicas. Se presenta un caso de Zoster sine herpete, durante la convalecencia del SARS-CoV-2, en un paciente masculino de 43 años, que acudió a consulta por dolor precordial de gran intensidad, sensación de escozor en tórax posterior y dificultad respiratoria; 10 días después de prueba de hisopado nasofaríngeo positiva para antígeno de SARS-CoV-2. Es importante no olvidar la probabilidad de presentaciones atípicas de virus latentes con el fin de realizar un diagnóstico y tratamiento oportuno a los pacientes.

SARS-CoV-2 is a systemic virus that has a strong impact on the immune system; this allows latent viruses, such as varicella-zoster virus (VZV), to reactivate and aggravate the respiratory symptoms with cutaneous, mucosal and neurological involvement. We present a case of Zoster sine herpete, during convalescence from SARS-CoV-2, in a 43-year-old male patient who presented with severe precordial pain, stinging sensation in the posterior thorax and respiratory distress; 10 days after a positive nasopharyngeal swab test for SARS-CoV-2 antigen. It is important not to forget the probability of atypical presentations of latent viruses to make a timely diagnosis and treatment of patients.

Serum interleukin-6 levels are increased in post-herpetic neuralgia: a single-center retrospective study

Abstract Background: Studies have shown that the overall incidence rate of herpeszoster (HZ) in China is 6.64 cases per 1000 people, despite such harms brought by postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), the mechanism of the disease remains unclear in China. Currently, effective biomarkers to predict PHN remain unavailable, which makes it difficult to prevent and successfully treat PHN. Objectives: The aim of the study was to determine the serum interleukin-6 level in PHN. Methods: The serum levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6) were measured by multi-antibody sandwich ELISA. The likert scale was used to represent the degree of neuralgia in the patients. Patients with PHN were divided into a mild PHN group and a severe PHN group according to the Likert scale. ROC curve was performed for evaluating the diagnostic efficiency of IL6 for PHN. The correlation between the IL6 level and the Likert scale before and after treatment with gabapentin and mecobalamin was analyzed. Results: IL6 levels in PHN patients resulted higher compared to volunteers. Patients in the severe PHN group had a higher serum IL6 level than in the mild PHN group. The Likert scale score was related to the serum IL6 levels and the frequency of IL6 levels above the cutoff value (4.95pg/mL) in PNH groups before and after treatment (p<0.05). Study limitations: Pain is subjective. Some mental states, such as anxiety and depression, greatly influence an individual's perception of pain, and pain tolerance can vary between people. Therefore, pain scores can be affected by different individual factors. Conclusions: The serum IL6 levels may be used as a biochemical indicator of the severity of PNH.

Cold antibody autoimmune hemolytic anemia following varicella infection

Introduction: Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is a rare complication of chicken pox. In adults, such AIHA is due to warm antibodies. We report a case of cold antibody AIHA following chicken pox in a young female. Case Report: A 24-year-old female presented with clinical and laboratory features consistent with hemolytic anemia 5 days after the onset of chicken pox. Her hemoglobin levels dropped rapidly during the course of admission from 7.9 to 3.8 g/dL with evidence of ongoing haemolysis in the form of rising total and indirect bilirubin. Peripheral smear revealed red cell agglutinates and erythrophagocytosis. Direct Coomb's test (DCT) was positive for C3d suggesting a cold antibody AIHA. Since test for Donath Landsteiner antibody was negative, and all other tests for common causes of hemolytic anemia were noncontributory, it was presumed to be due to chicken pox. The fulminant course necessitated a short course of oral steroids to which she responded with rise in hemoglobin and no further hemolysis. Two weeks later, her peripheral smear was normal and DCT negative. Conclusion: In patients presenting with acute onset anemia following chicken pox, possibility of cold antibody AIHA must be considered and appropriate testing pursued. Despite lack of empiric evidence, short course of steroids may be beneficial if drop in hemoglobin is rapid with evidence of fulminant hemolysis, showing no abatement after first week.

Continuous hemicrania as the initial manifestation of Ramsay Hunt syndrome: a case report / Hemicrania contínua como manifestação inicial da síndrome de Ramsay Hunt: relato de caso

Introduction:Ramsay-Hunt syndrome, also called otic zoster, is a rare complication of herpes zoster. The syndrome is characterized by peripheral facial nerve palsy and an erythematous vesicular eruption in the ear or mouth. Preceding the appearance of the vesicles, unilateral otalgia or neck pain may occur more commonly. However, persistent hemicrania is infrequent in the preeruptive phase. Objective:To present an atypical case of Ramsay Hunt syndrome with continuous unilateral headache preceding the onset of other symptoms and signs of the syndrome. Case report:Report of a 69-year-old woman who presented subacute onset of moderate to severe left hemicrania with no autonomic signs. Eight days after the start and continuous headache maintenance, she presented with peripheral facial paralysis. After four days, she noticed the presence of vesicles in the left ear and odynophagia. She developed nausea with several episodes of vomiting and severe imbalance that made it impossible for her to walk unassisted. On physical examination, she presented vesicles in the left ear and oropharynx, left peripheral facial palsy (House Brackmann grade IV), left hypoacusis, nystagmus, and vestibular gait. Diagnostic tests for screening several metabolic diseases and diagnosis of infection (including HIV) were unremarkable. Brain computed tomography and cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed no abnormalities. Conclusion:Ramsay-Hunt syndrome mainly involves the facial and vestibulocochlear nerves, causing peripheral facial palsy, otalgia, hypoacusis, and, less frequently, imbalance. Although pain is a frequent manifestation of the preeruptive phase of RHS, unilateral headache is not common in this scenario. On the other hand, it is a prevalent complaint in the emergency department and has several different etiologies. Hence, diagnosing RHS when patients present exclusively unilateral headaches is challenging for clinicians. Physicians must consider RHS a vital differential diagnosis of sided-locked headaches, avoiding diagnostic errors and treatment delays.

Introdução: A síndrome de Ramsay-Hunt, também chamada de ótico-zóster, é uma complicação rara do herpes-zóster. A síndrome é caracterizada por paralisia do nervo facial periférico e erupção vesicular eritematosa no ouvido ou na boca. Precedendo o aparecimento das vesículas, pode ocorrer mais comumente otalgia unilateral ou dor cervical. No entanto, a hemicrania persistente é pouco frequente na fase pré-eruptiva. Objetivo: Apresentar um caso atípico de síndrome de Ramsay Hunt com cefaleia unilateral contínua precedendo o aparecimento de outros sintomas e sinais da síndrome. Relato de caso: Relato de uma mulher de 69 anos que apresentou hemicrania esquerda de início subagudo, moderada a grave, sem sinais autonômicos. Oito dias após o início e manutenção contínua da cefaleia, apresentou paralisia facial periférica. Após quatro dias, notou presença de vesículas em orelha esquerda e odinofagia. Ela desenvolveu náuseas com vários episódios de vômitos e desequilíbrio grave que a impossibilitou de andar sem ajuda. Ao exame físico apresentava vesículas em orelha esquerda e orofaringe, paralisia facial periférica esquerda (grau IV de House Brackmann), hipoacusia esquerda, nistagmo e marcha vestibular. Os testes de diagnóstico para rastreio de diversas doenças metabólicas e diagnóstico de infeções (incluindo VIH) não apresentaram resultados dignos de nota. A tomografia computadorizada de cérebro e a análise do líquido cefalorraquidiano não mostraram alterações. Conclusão: A síndrome de Ramsay-Hunt envolve principalmente os nervos facial e vestibulococlear, causando paralisia facial periférica, otalgia, hipoacusia e, menos frequentemente, desequilíbrio. Embora a dor seja uma manifestação frequente da fase pré-eruptiva da SHI, a cefaleia unilateral não é comum neste cenário. Por outro lado, é uma queixa prevalente no serviço de urgência e tem diversas etiologias. Portanto, diagnosticar SHI quando os pacientes apresentam dores de cabeça exclusivamente unilaterais é um desafio para os médicos. Os médicos devem considerar a SHI um diagnóstico diferencial vital de cefaleias laterais, evitando erros de diagnóstico e atrasos no tratamento.

Manifestação atípica do herpes zóster em boca: relato de caso / Atypical manifestation of herpes zoster in the mouth: case report / Manifestación atípica de herpes zoster en boca: reporte de caso

O herpes-zóster é uma infecção viral causada pela reativação do vírus da varicela-zóster (VZV) sendo os ramos do nervo trigêmeo afetados em até 20% dos casos. Apresenta-se comumente com dor em queimação e caracteristicamente, o zoster se manifesta como uma erupção vesicular unilateral que aparece na face, cabeça, tronco e até mesmo nas extremidades, variando de lesão leve e de rápida cicatrização à lesões graves e extensas com duração de semanas. Embora se reconheça que o zoster pode ocorrer sem exantema, classicamente apresenta-se como dermátomo unilateral, doloroso e/ou pruriginoso. A terapia fotodinâmica antimicrobiana (aPDT) tem sido indicada como uma modalidade promissora no tratamento de potenciais lesões infecciosas. Neste trabalho será relatado o caso clínico de um paciente diagnosticado com herpes zóster com manifestação atípica e que recebeu tratamento medicamentoso convencional associado à aPDT.

Herpes zoster is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus (VZV), with the branches of the trigeminal nerve affected in up to 20% of cases. It commonly presents with burning pain and characteristically, zoster manifests as a unilateral vesicular eruption appearing on the face, head, trunk, and even the extremities, ranging from a mild, rapidly healing lesion to severe, extensive lesions lasting up to weeks. Although it is recognized that zoster can occur without rash, it classically presents as a unilateral, painful and/or pruritic dermatome. Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) has been indicated as a promising modality in the treatment of potential infectious lesions. In this work, the clinical case of a patient diagnosed with herpes zoster with atypical manifestation and who received conventional drug treatment associated with aPDT will be reported.

El herpes zóster es una infección vírica provocada por la reactivación del virus de la varicela zóster (VZV), con afectación de las ramas del nervio trigémino hasta en un 20% de los casos. Comúnmente se presenta con dolor ardiente y característicamente, el zoster se manifiesta como una erupción vesicular unilateral que aparece en la cara, la cabeza, el tronco e incluso las extremidades, que van desde una lesión leve que cura rápidamente hasta lesiones graves y extensas que duran semanas. Aunque se reconoce que el herpes zoster puede ocurrir sin exantema, clásicamente se presenta como un dermatoma unilateral, doloroso y/o pruriginoso. La terapia fotodinámica antimicrobiana (aPDT) se ha indicado como una modalidad prometedora en el tratamiento de posibles lesiones infecciosas. En este trabajo se reportará el caso clínico de un paciente diagnosticado de herpes zoster con manifestación atípica y que recibió tratamiento farmacológico convencional asociado a TFPa.

Clinical efficacy of fire needling combined with cupping therapy on herpes zoster of acute stage and the effect on Th17/Treg cellular immune balance / 中国针灸

OBJECTIVE@#To compare the clinical efficacy between the combined therapy of fire needling and cupping, and western medication on herpes zoster of acute stage, as well as the effects on Th17 and Treg cells and inflammatory factors, i.e. IL-10 and IL-17 in the peripheral blood.@*METHODS@#Eighty patients with herpes zoster of acute stage were randomly divided into a combined therapy (fire needling plus cupping) group and a western medication group, 40 cases in each one. In the combined therapy group, the pricking and scattering techniques with fire needle were used at ashi points and Jiaji (EX-B 2) corresponding to the affected spinal segments; afterwards, cupping therapy was delivered. The combined treatment was given once daily. In the western medication group, valaciclovir hydrochloride tablet and vitamin B1 tablet were administered orally. The duration of treatment in each group was 10 days. Before each treatment from day 1 to day 10 and on day 11 , the score of symptoms and physical signs was observed in the two groups separately. Before each treatment from day 1 to day 10 and on day 11, 30, 60, the score of visual analogue scale (VAS) and skin lesion indexes were observed in the two groups. On day 60, the incidence of postherpetic neuralgia was recorded in the two groups. The levels of Th17 and Treg cells, Th17/Treg ratio in the peripheral blood, as well as serum levels of IL-10 and IL-17 were detected before and after treatment in the two groups. The clinical efficacy was compared between the two groups.@*RESULTS@#From day 6 to day 10 during treatment and on day 11, the scores of symptoms and physical signs in the combined therapy group were lower than those of the western medication group (P<0.05, P<0.01). On day 3, day 6 to day 10 during treatment and day 11, day 30, VAS scores in the combined therapy group were lower than those of the western medication group (P<0.05, P<0.01). On day 60, the incidence of postherpetic neuralgia in the combined therapy group was lower compared with that in the western medication group (P<0.05). The blister arresting time and scabbing time in the combined therapy group were shorter than those of the western medication group (P<0.05). After treatment, the level of Th17, and Th17/Treg ratio in the peripheral blood, as well as the serum levels of IL-10 and IL-17 were all lower in comparison with those in the western medication group (P<0.05). The curative and remarkably effective rate was 82.5% (33/40) in the combined therapy group, higher than 62.5% (25/40) in the western medication group (P<0.05).@*CONCLUSION@#The early application of fire needling combined with cupping therapy can effectively treat herpes zoster of acute stage, relieve pain, and reduce the incidence of postherpetic neuralgia, which may be related to reducing the levels of Th17 and Treg cells, and Th17/Treg ratio in the peripheral blood, as well as the serum levels of IL-10 and IL-17 so that the cellular immune balance is modulated.

Preparation and application of high titer neutralizing antibody against varicella-herpes zoster virus / 中国生物制品学杂志

@#Objective To prepare high titer specific immune serum of varicella-herpes zoster virus(VZV)for the quality control of live attenuated varicella vaccine and live attenuated herpes zoster vaccine.MethodsMale rabbits were immunized with high purity recombinant gE glycoprotein combined with Freund's adjuvant,aluminum hydroxide adjuvant or MF59 adjuvant,2 rabbits in each group. On the 56th day after immunization,the maximum blood samples(heart or carotid artery)were collected from each rabbit to prepare serum,which was mixed with VZV for neutralization reaction,and then inoculated into a 6-well plate full of monolayer of MRC-5 human diploid cells. After incubation for 7 d,the number of plaques was counted and the neutralizing titer and virus neutralizing ability of immune serumwere determined. The serum with high neutralizing titer and virus neutralizing ability was selected for the identification test of live attenuated varicella vaccine and live attenuated herpes zoster vaccine VZV(Oka strain)working seed lot and the detection of exogenous virus factors.ResultsThe immune sera prepared by immunizing rabbits with various combinations of recombinant gE glycoprotein all showed neutralizing activity,among which the serum prepared by the combination of recombinant gE glycoprotein and Freund's adjuvant had the highest neutralizing titer of 1∶512 and the virus neutralizing ability of 240 000 PFU/mL;The prepared immune serum was usedfor the identification test of VZV(Oka strain)working seed lot and the detection of exogenous virus factors,of which all the results were in line with the requirements. Conclusion The recombinantgE glycoprotein could be used for the preparation of high titer neutralizing antibody against VZV,and the prepared high titer neutralizing antibody is suitable for thequality control of live attenuated varicella vaccine and live attenuated herpes zoster vaccine.

Secondary herpes zoster wound cured by allogeneic platelet-rich plasma: a case report / 中国输血杂志

【Objective】 To investigate the feasibility of allogeneic platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for the treatment of herpes zoster wounds secondary to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), especially large ulcer wounds. 【Methods】 The treatment process of a patient with massive herpes zoster wounds in perineum and hip accompanied by extensive soft tissue necrosis secondary to SLE was retrospectively analyzed. The clinical efficacy of allogeneic PRP was explored combined with treatment key points and literature review. 【Results】 The patient′s wound bed was prepared until the wound was fresh, then treated externally with allogeneic PRP 3 times a week. The wound was healed completely after 42 days. 【Conclusion】 In the case of autologous PRP unavailable or unsuitable, allogeneic PRP is a safe alternative, which can effectively promote tissue regeneration, and this patient achieved curative effect in a short period of time.

Serological analysis of varicella-zoster virus IgG antibody in healthy people aged 1～30 years in Liaoning Province / 中国生物制品学杂志

@#Abstract：Objective To carry out serological analysis of varicella⁃zoster virus（VZV）IgG antibody level in healthy people aged 1 ~ 30 years in Liaoning Province. Methods In October 2020，3～5 mL venous blood samples were collected from 617 healthy people aged 1～30 years selected from six counties and districts in Shenyang，Fuxin and Dandong of Liaoning Province by stratified random sampling method，of which serum samples were collected and determined for VZV IgG antibody level by ELISA. The positive rate of serum antibody and geometric mean concentration（GMC）of antibody were calculated and compared. Results Among 617 serum samples，302 samples were positive for VZV IgG antibody，the positive rate was 48. 947%，and the GMC was 112. 772 mIU／mL. The positive rate of VZV IgG antibody was 29. 670%～75. 789% and the GMC was 45. 508～366. 559 mIU／mL in healthy people of various ages. Both of the antibody positive rate（χ2 = 67. 104， P < 0. 001）and GMC（F = 20. 685，P < 0. 001）showed significant differences. The positive rates of VZV IgG antibody in male and female were 44. 817% and 53. 633% respectively，which showed significant difference（χ2 = 4. 779，P = 0. 029）， while the GMCs were 96. 983 and 133. 829 mIU／mL respectively（t = -1. 958，P = 0. 051）with no significant difference. The positive rates of VZV IgG antibody of healthy people in Shenyang，Fuxin and Dandong of Liaoning Province were 55. 224%，40. 201% and 51. 152% respectively with significant differences（χ2 = 9. 683，P = 0. 008），of which the positive rate of FuxinwassignificantlylowerthanthoseofShenyangandDandong（χ2 =9. 046and5. 013，P =0. 003and0. 025，respectively）； While the GMCs were 133. 523，85. 953 and 123. 713 mIU／mL respectively with no significant difference（F = 0. 514， P = 0. 598）. Among 617 serum samples，54 sampleswere suspicious，which remained within the criticalrange afterre⁃examina⁃ tion，while the gap between positive rate and the total percentage of positive and suspicious results gradually decreased with the increase of age，indicating that the immunity to varicella gradually increased with the increase of age. Conclusion The VZV⁃IgG antibody level of healthy people aged 1～30 years in Liaoning Province increased gradually with age，while the overall level was low. To control the spread of varicella virus，it is recommended to increase varicella vaccine coverage in vulnerable areas and susceptible population to build VZV immune barrier.

Effect of interferon receptor 1 silenced human diploid MRC⁃5 cell line on replication of varicella⁃zoster virus / 中国生物制品学杂志

@#Abstract：Objective To improve the replication level of varicella⁃zoster virus（VZV）in human diploid cell line MRC⁃5 and increase the yield of VZV vaccine by reducing the expression of interferon（IFN）related genes via optimizing the cell line MRC⁃5. Methods Interferon receptor 1（IFNAR1）silenced MRC⁃5 cell line（MRC⁃5IFNAR1⁃）was constructed by CRISPR／Cas9 gene editing technology，which was determined for the relative expression of IFNAR1 mRNA，and for those of mRNA of IFN related genes IFNβ and OAS1 after VZV infection by qRT⁃PCR to evaluate the effect of gene silencing. Gene mutation sequences were further identified by sequencing of the silenced sites. The replication of VZV in MRC⁃5 and MRC⁃5IFNAR1⁃ cell lines was compared 168 h after VZV infection by using qRT⁃PCR and plaque formation unit（PFU）assay， to evaluate the effect of MRC⁃5IFNAR1⁃cell line on VZV replication. Results The growth status of MRC⁃5IFNAR1⁃ cell line wasconsistent with that of MRC ⁃ 5 cells，and the relative expression of IFNAR1 mRNA decreased by 73%；The relative expressions of IFNβ and OAS1 mRNA in MRC⁃5IFNAR1⁃ cell line were 61% and 90% lower than those in MRC⁃ 5 cells respectively after VZV infection；In addition，168 h after VZV infection，the level of DNA replication and the titer of VZV increased by 5. 7 folds and 4 folds respectively. Conclusion The successful establishment of MRC⁃5IFNAR1⁃ cell line may be a potential scheme to increase the yield of vaccines based on human diploid cells，and provided a reference for expanding production of VZV vaccine.

Epidemic characteristics and genotyping of varicella in Yangzhou in 2021 / 公共卫生与预防医学

Objective To analyze the epidemic characteristics of varicella and the genetic characteristics of varicella zoster virus (VZV) in Yangzhou in 2021, and to provide a theoretical basis for the scientific prevention and control of varicella in Yangzhou. Methods Descriptive epidemiological analysis was carried out on the varicella outbreaks reported in Yangzhou in 2021. Throat swabs or herpes fluid samples from varicella cases in 2021 were collected, and the viral nucleic acid was detected by real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR. The genotype and evolutionary relationship of the virus strain were determined according to the 6 SNPs in the ORF22 gene fragment sequence. Results In 2021, there were 20 varicella outbreaks in Yangzhou, involving 147 cases, all of which occurred in kindergartens and primary and secondary schools, and the peak incidence was in the age group of 4-7 years old. The high incidence time of the outbreaks was from May to July, and from November to January of the next year. The varicella vaccination rate of the cases was low, and all were 1-dose vaccination. The gene sequencing results of 8 samples were J/clade 2, and 3 of them had A-C synonymous mutation at position 37997 in ORF22 sequence. Conclusion In 2021, varicella outbreaks in Yangzhou occurred mainly in kindergartens and schools. Preschool children are susceptible, all of which are caused by J/clade 2 varicella-zoster virus. It is suggested to strengthen the monitoring and management of the varicella epidemic situation in schools in the city, and at the same time incorporate the varicella vaccine into the routine immunization program of the city and strengthen 2 doses of varicella vaccination.

Vacunación contra el herpes zóster en Argentina / Vaccination against herpes zoster in Argentina

Durante los últimos meses, quienes trabajamos en Argentina en el ámbito de la atención primaria como médicos de cabecera hemos recibido muchas consultas de pacientes solicitando nuestra opinión sobre una vacuna que no está actualmente incluida en el Calendario Nacional de Vacunación y que además estaba fuera de nuestra agenda: la vacuna contra el herpes zóster. Este artículo editorial pretende ayudar a los equipos de salud a realizar con sus pacientes un proceso de toma de decisiones compartidas en las consultas acerca de esta nueva vacuna. (AU)

During the last few months, those of us who work in Argentina in the field of primary care as general practitioners have received many inquiries from patients requesting our opinion about a vaccine that is not currently included in the National Vaccination Schedule and that, in addition, was off our scope: the herpes zoster vaccine. This editorial article aims to help our health teams carry out a shared decision-making process with their patients regarding this new vaccine. (AU)

Optimization,verification and application of ELISA method for quantitative detection of varicella-zoster virus IgG antibody / 中国生物制品学杂志

@#Objective To optimize and verify the ELISA method for quantitative detection of varicella-zoster virus(VZV)IgG antibody potency,and use it for the screening of plasma with high potency VZV-IgG in healthy donors.Methods The VZV-IgG indirect ELISA kit from Institut VirionSerion GmbH was selected,the first international standard for varicellazoster immunoglobulin(NIBSC code:W1044)was diluted to 2 IU/mL as the standard,and 4-parameter fitting curve was used to develop the quantitative ELISA method. The method was determined for the optimal linear range and verified for the precision and accuracy. VZV-IgG antibody potency of 1 962 human plasma samples and some batches of human immunoglobulin preparations from 10 plasma stations under Sinopharm Wuhan Plasma-derived Biotherapies Co.,Ltd.(SWPB)were detected by the developed method.Results The linear range of the standard curve was 16. 25 ～ 2 000 mIU/mL,the CV values of precision in intra-and inter-assays were 1. 3% ～ 10. 6% and 4. 270% ～ 7. 636%,and the accuracy in intra-and inter-assays were 92. 30% ～ 111. 02% and 98. 40% ～ 104. 88%,respectively;Sample-adding experiment showed that the measured value of the added sample was 95. 79% ～ 111. 03% of the theoretical value. The positive rate of 1 962 human plasma samples was 94. 29%,and the samples with potency greater than 3 000 mIU/mL accounted for 1. 02%. The potency of VZV-IgG antibody in different kinds of human immunoglobulin preparations was lower,while higher than that of intravenous human immunoglobulin(pH 4).Conclusion The optimized VZV-IgG quantitative detection method can be used for the screening of VZV-IgG in healthy people. The positive rate of VZV-IgG antibody in naturally infected healthy plasma donors is high,while the potency is low,thus,vaccine immunization is required to obtain qualified plasma with high potency.

Etiological analysis of clinical cases of live attenuated varicella vaccine / 中国生物制品学杂志

@#Objective To analyze the etiology of clinical cases of live attenuated varicella vaccine.Methods 64 samples of varicella vesicle fluid from 49 patients clinically diagnosed as varicella cases in phase Ⅲ clinical trial of live attenuated varicella vaccine in enterprises(the test site was Henan Province) were collected,extracted for DNA,and distinguished for wild-type strains and vaccine strains by PCR and restriction fragment length polymorphism(PCR-RFLP).Genotype was analyzed using the genotyping method recommended at the international(varicella-zoster virus,VZV) nomenclature meeting2008.Results 64 vesicle fluids were all wild-type strains(Pst Ⅰ~+Sma Ⅰ~-BssH Ⅱ~-Nae Ⅰ~-),and no vaccine-related cases occurred.All 49 isolates belonged to Clade 2.Additionally,compared with Clade 2,a synonymous mutation(T→C) in SNP18 082 was detected in all 49 isolates,and a mutation(C→A) in SNP790 was detected in one isolate.Conclusion In the clinical trial of live attenuated varicella vaccine in Henan Province,all the clinical cases were caused by infection of wild-type strain which belonged to Clade 2 genetic branch.