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Diagnosis of Chickenpox

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

ConditionInDepth

Diagnosis of Chickenpox

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. Chickenpox is usually diagnosed based on the rash.

Rarely, tests may be done to look for signs of the virus. This can be done with blood tests, a skin smear, or a viral culture.

References

  • Chickenpox. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/chickenpox.
  • Chickenpox. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/condition/chickenpox.
  • Chickenpox (varicella). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: http://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox.
  • Kennedy PGE, Gershon AA. Clinical features of varicella-zoster virus infection. Viruses. 2018;10(11):609.

Contributors

  • April Scott, NP
Last Updated:
2022-11-01

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.