Title of article
Seroprevalence of varicella-zoster virus among pregnant women in two teaching hospitals, Tehran, Iran
Author/Authors
Talebi-Taher, Mahshid Department - Rasoul-e-Akram Hospital - Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran , Kashanian, Maryam Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology - Akbarabadi Hospital - Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran , Khalili, Katayoon Department of Internal Medicine - Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran
Pages
4
From page
37
To page
40
Abstract
Background and Objective: Varicella zoster virus (VZV) can cause life-threatening disease in pregnant women. The aim of
this study was to identify the VZV immune status in pregnant women and also determine the validity of self-reported history
for chickenpox.
Methods: Serologic testing for VZV was performed for 400 pregnant women attending prenatal care at clinics located in
two teaching and referral hospitals in Tehran, Iran. The Enzyme Immunoassay method was used to assess IgG antibodies
against VZV.
Results: A total of 400 pregnant women, aged 16-43 years (median: 27 years, mean: 27.6 ± 5.9 years), were examined in
which 361 (90.3%) were found to be seropositive. Sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative predictive values of
patients’ self reported history were 51.8%, 71.7%, 94.4% and 13.8% respectively.
Conclusion: Serologic screening for VZV in pregnant women seems crucial. We suggest considering the pregnant women
as the target group for future immunization programs in Iran.
Keywords
Varicella zoster virus , seroepidemiology , pregnant women , Iran
Journal title
Astroparticle Physics
Serial Year
2014
Record number
2426767
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