Neonatal varicella complicated by Staphylococcus aureus lung abscess in a preterm infant: a case report - Report - MDSpire

Neonatal varicella complicated by Staphylococcus aureus lung abscess in a preterm infant: a case report

  • By

  • Lingxia Zhao

  • Yuqiong Ming

  • Lingkong Zeng

  • Minghui Yi

  • Xuwei Tao

  • Wenhao Yuan

  • July 6, 2026

  • 0 min

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Clinical Report: Staphylococcus aureus Lung Abscess Following Neonatal Varicella

Overview

This case study details a rare instance of a Staphylococcus aureus lung abscess in a preterm infant following neonatal varicella.

Background

Neonatal varicella is a rare but serious condition that can lead to severe complications, particularly in preterm infants. Secondary bacterial infections can occur, but deep organ involvement such as lung abscess formation is exceedingly rare. This case highlights the need for clinical awareness of potential complications in this vulnerable population.

Data Highlights

No numerical data or trial data presented in the article.

Key Findings

  • A 26-day-old preterm infant developed a lung abscess following neonatal varicella.
  • Initial treatment included intravenous acyclovir and immunoglobulin, but respiratory issues persisted.
  • Chest imaging revealed a right upper lobe abscess, confirmed by respiratory metagenomic next-generation sequencing.
  • Initial antibiotic therapy with vancomycin was ineffective, leading to a switch to linezolid.
  • Post-treatment imaging showed complete resolution of the lung abscess.
  • Persistent respiratory abnormalities should prompt early imaging evaluation.

Clinical Implications

This case highlights the need for monitoring of respiratory symptoms in neonates with varicella, as cutaneous resolution does not rule out serious underlying infections.

Conclusion

This case illustrates a rare complication of neonatal varicella.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Author(s)/Org, Source, Year -- Title
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  3. Author(s)/Org, Source, Year -- Title
  4. Author(s)/Org, Source, Year -- Title
  5. CDC, Clinical Guidance for People at Risk for Severe Varicella, 2024 -- Chickenpox (Varicella)
  6. CDC, Manual for the Surveillance of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, 2024 -- Chapter 17: Varicella
  7. Clinical Guidance for People at Risk for Severe Varicella | Chickenpox (Varicella) | CDC
  8. Chapter 17: Varicella | Manual for the Surveillance of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases | CDC

Original Source(s)

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