Is there any relationship between chickenpox and psoriasis?

Question

Hello doctor,

My 5-year-old developed psoriasis after a bad case of chickenpox. Now, I cannot tell which scars are from the chickenpox and which are from the psoriasis. She keeps asking when she'll look normal again. Daycare suggested keeping her home until her skin clears, but I am not sure how long that will take. I have noticed she gets itchy after playing in the sun. I tried Calamine lotion, but it dries her skin out more. Is this common after chickenpox? How long until we see improvement?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

The causative agent of chicken pox is Varicella zoster virus which has been described as a possible incidence of psoriasis. Both are immunologically mediated.

Psoriasis is a chronic long-life skin disease.

It can make the child sad, depressed, or angry. Most pediatric cases are mild and get better with treatment.

The following will be beneficial to the child:

1. Vitamin D analogs such as calcipotriol are applied to the plaque twice daily.

2. Topical corticosteroids used for short courses two to three times per week long term.

3. Emollients such as petroleum jelly or vaseline.

4. Avoid scratching, stress, skin injury, or infection.

Referral after two weeks.
The probable causes: Autoimmune disorders.
- Probable diagnosis: Psoriasis.
  - Regarding follow-up: After two weeks.
    
    I hope this helps.
    
    Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.
    
    Thank you.