Varicella zoster causing preseptal cellulitis - uncommon but possible.

Background: Varicella has been known to be a harmless childhood disease. However, it has been reported that severe complications have taken place following Varicella infection, in both immunocompetent, as well as immunocompromised, individuals. Cutaneous complications of Varicella may manifest as preseptal cellulitis, albeit rarely.

Report: We present a case of a 4-year-old boy who presented with symptoms and signs of preseptal cellulitis following Varicella infection. He was referred to the otorhinolaryngology team for a nasoendoscopy to rule out sinusitis, in view of the fear that a child presenting with a swollen red eye may be a case of true orbital cellulitis. He was treated successfully with intravenous antibiotics and surgical drainage of the preseptal collection.

Conclusion: It is imperative for clinicians to be aware that a simple Varicella infection may lead to cutaneous complications in the pediatric age group, especially in children who are 4 years and younger. They may develop preseptal cellulitis, whose presentation might mimic that of orbital cellulitis. Empirical treatment with antibiotics would be advantageous for the patient. A nasoendoscopic examination may also be warranted in these cases to rule out sinusitis as a cause of orbital cellulitis.