Antiviral treatment of varicella in pediatric practice in the Latium region of Italy: results of an observational study

Abstract

The optimal management of chickenpox in children is a controversial issue, at least in Europe. This study was designed to describe chickenpox in children and its reported management by pediatricians working for the National Health Service in the Latium region of Italy. A questionnaire collected information on the duration, complications and treatment of the disease between September, 1998, and May, 1999, by participant pediatricians who enrolled 1094 patients in community pediatric practice. Secondary and tertiary cases of the disease in the same household were more severe than the primary cases. Acyclovir was given to 50% of the children, with a tendency to treat more severely ill children. The duration of the disease was significantly less in children receiving acyclovir within the first 24 h of rash (7.6 days 9.0). No complications requiring hospitalization were reported. The use of antiviral drugs is not consistent among pediatricians. Clear guidelines are needed to minimize the use of drugs and to identify children who are likely to benefit most from antiviral therapy.