Physical examination for chickenpox
Your health professional may examine you or your child to confirm a diagnosis of chickenpox and to look for signs of complications. During a physical examination, the health professional will check:
- Skin, for chickenpox rash and also for signs of bruising or skin infection. Both bruising of the skin without a known injury and skin infection are possible signs of complications from chickenpox.
- Eyes, for sores. If sores are found on the clear covering of the eye (cornea), you may need treatment with a special eye ointment.
- Nervous system, for signs of inflammation of the brain (encephalitis) or the tissues surrounding it and the spinal cord (meningitis).
- Lungs, for signs of pneumonia.
- Joints, for signs of arthritis.
If complications are present, you or your child may need closer watching and special treatment. Adults with chickenpox may need to be admitted to a hospital.
| Author: | Amy Fackler, MA Debby Golonka, MPH | Last Updated: June 13, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics | |
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