Chickenpox Complicated by Cellulitis and Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report

Abstract

Chickenpox is typically mild in healthy children, but it can lead to severe complications. We report the case of a 3-year-old girl who developed a secondary bacterial infection and systemic inflammatory response syndrome following chickenpox. After presenting with fever, vomiting, and a polymorphous rash, her condition worsened with dehydration, respiratory symptoms, and lymphadenopathy. Despite initial symptomatic treatment, she developed cellulitis and systemic inflammation, requiring the addition of acyclovir and antibiotics. Surgical intervention was eventually required due to the worsening cellulitis. The patient recovered after 11 days of hospitalization, emphasizing the importance of early recognition and intervention in managing complications of varicella.