The congenital varicella syndrome.

Two children, aged 18 months and 3 years, with the congenital varicella syndrome are described. Neuropathic bladder and lax abdominal wall musculature were present in one case. In the other, paralysis and marked hypoplasia of one arm, and an ipsilateral Horner's syndrome, were the main abnormalities. Extensive skin scarring corresponding to a dermatome distribution was present in both children. This constellation of abnormalities, which may best be explained on the basis of a developmental radiculopathy, emphasises the neuropathic effects on the fetus of varicella zoster (VZ) infection in early pregnancy.