Laparoscopic Findings in Two Adults with Chickenpox

Summary

We report the laparoscopic findings in two previously healthy adults with chickenpox and hepatic involvement. Both patients were admitted to hospital with severe upper right quadrant abdominal pain coinciding with the skin rash. Liver function tests were abnormal.

In case 1, round lesions with a necrotic center, 2 mm in diameter, in both hepatic lobes were observed. Morphologically they resembled the rash on the skin. Numerous granular lesions were also demonstrated. In case 2, laparoscopic examination was performed recently when the cutaneous rash had faded. Granular images were scarce; there was enlargement of the liver capsule with small depressed areas of pink color. These lesions were considered similar to those found in case 1, although in a more advanced stage of scarring and resolution. Both patients made a good recovery.

Key words:

Chickenpox - Varicella-zoster virus - Liver involvement - Laparoscopy