[Specific immunoglobulin and acyclovir in the prevention and treatment of varicella zoster infections in children with neoplastic diseases]

Immunocompromised children with acute leukemias and solid tumors are at high risk of fatal varicella infection. Reviewing a total of 242 patients at risk we have found that zoster immune plasma from reconvalescent patients (ZIP) and commercially available specific varicella/zoster immune globulin (VZIG) both prevent fatal disease. In addition, Acyclovir was effective against VZV-infections in this group of patients. We summarize our present policy of prophylaxis and treatment of immunocompromised children with neoplastic disease who have been exposed to VZV.