An uncommon complication of a common disease: Varicella zoster myelitis

Abstract

Varicella zoster infection is known to cause chickenpox. Neurological complications related to varicella zoster infection are particularly prevalent among the Immunodeficient patients and rare among immunocompetent patients. We report a case of varicella zoster infection and concomitant long segment dorsal spine transverse myelitis in an immunocompetent patient. CSF was positive for varicella zoster virus (VZV) DNA. Significant improvement was observed following treatment with acyclovir.