Multifocal vasculopathy due to Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV): serial analysis of VZV DNA and intrathecal synthesis of VZV antibody in cerebrospinal fluid.

Recognition of multifocal vasculopathy due to varicella-zoster virus (VZV) is often problematic. We describe a human immunodeficiency virus-infected patient who had progressive central nervous system disease for >3 months. Both VZV DNA and antibody were detected in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) specimens; serial polymerase chain reaction analyses confirmed the diagnosis and guided the duration of therapy. Reduced ratios of VZV antibody in serum to that in CSF were also demonstrated.