Examining the rash is often sufficient for a healthcare provider to diagnose varicella. Lab testing can confirm any doubt that may exist.

Self-Assessments/Home Testing:

A few decades ago, chickenpox was a very prevalent infection. Almost everyone contracted it at least once throughout childhood.

Due to its prevalence, most people were familiar with the appearance of chickenpox and frequently diagnosed themselves. You would suspect chickenpox if you (or your child) raised red pimples that turned into blisters, particularly if this rash appeared a few days after having a fever or feeling ill.

Alterations to the Vaccine:

Since the vaccine’s introduction, most youngsters will never contract chickenpox again. You have probably never seen a chickenpox rash. Being unfamiliar with the rash makes self-diagnosis challenging.

Laboratories and Evaluations:

In most instances, no testing will be required to confirm a diagnosis of chickenpox. Your doctor can diagnose the condition merely by observing the rash. Your healthcare provider will also inquire about any additional symptoms you or your kid experienced when they began and if you have exposed to the chickenpox virus (if known).

For instance, your child’s pediatrician may have a separate waiting area or your healthcare professional may have you return to an exam room immediately rather than wait in the lobby.

When Additional Tests Are Required:

When would your physician recommend more testing? There are a few instances.

Severity:

You are suffering from a mild bout of chickenpox. In mild cases, the rash frequently does not have the “typical” appearance. You may only get little red pimples that do not blister. Because these lesions resemble bug bites or an allergic reaction, your healthcare professional must certify that you have chickenpox.

Pregnancy:

You are pregnant and suspect you have or have been exposed to chickenpox. The possibility of miscarriage and birth abnormalities exists. There is typically nothing to worry about. Possessing chickenpox just before giving birth increases the chance of transmitting the disease to the newborn. If you are pregnant and suspect you have chickenpox, you must consult your healthcare professional immediately.

Vaccinations:

You or your child has been vaccinated against chickenpox yet has developed a rash resembling the disease. Even after vaccination, it is still possible to contract chickenpox. This is more likely if you have only received one immunization and less likely if you have received two. In all circumstances, though, it is still relatively unusual. If you have vaccinated, but your healthcare professional still suspects chickenpox, a blood test or viral culture will likely be perform to confirm. The good news is that if you have immunized and still contract chickenpox, it will likely be a minor case that cures rapidly.

Unusual symptoms Your doctor suspects you have chickenpox, but you do not have the “typical” rash.

In such situations, your healthcare professional may administer the following tests:

Blood Tests:

In addition, a blood test can determine if you have an active chickenpox infection or are immune to the disease. A little blood is extracted and submitted to a laboratory to test for antibodies against the varicella-zoster virus. Varicella-zoster virus is the virus responsible for causing chickenpox.

Viral Culture:

Occasionally, viral culture performed instead of a blood test. A blister fluid sample delivered to the laboratory, where the specimen allowed to develop. Examined for the varicella-zoster virus after a certain period.

Differential Diagnoses:

Other causes of a raised, itchy, red rash or skin blisters exist. These skin conditions can create rashes that resemble chickenpox:

• Insect stings (especially bed bug bites)
• Impetigo
• Scabies
• Herpes simplex
• Contact dermatitis
• Reaction to a pharmaceutical