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Smallpox (Variola Virus)

Smallpox (Variola Virus) was found in Select 5-Minute Pediatrics Topics which helps you diagnose, treat, and follow up on over 900 medical conditions seen in everyday practice.

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Description

  • Smallpox is a life-threatening, acute eruptive, contagious disease caused by the variola virus.
  • The disease is characterized by a febrile prodrome followed by the development of a rash.
  • Rash evolves in a characteristic fashion: Macules → papules → vesicles → pustules. Scabs form and fall off leaving scars called pockmarks.
  • There are 2 clinical forms of smallpox:
    • Smallpox minor is a less common and less severe form of the disease.
    • There are 5 types of smallpox major, the more common and serious form of the disease.
      • Ordinary smallpox
      • Modified smallpox
      • Flat smallpox
      • Hemorrhagic smallpox
      • Variola sine eruptione

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