What causes Congenital Varicella Syndrome?

Congenital Varicella Syndrome is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (the chickenpox virus) infecting a pregnant woman during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. When a non-immune mother contracts chickenpox during early pregnancy, the virus can cross the placenta and infect the developing fetus, leading to serious birth defects. The risk is highest when infection occurs between 8 and 20 weeks of gestation, with approximately 0.4-2% of exposed fetuses developing the syndrome.

What is the best test for Congenital Varicella Syndrome?

The Varicella-Zoster Virus Antibodies IgG test is the most important test for preventing Congenital Varicella Syndrome because it determines whether a woman has immunity to chickenpox before or during pregnancy. This blood test detects IgG antibodies that indicate past infection or successful vaccination, which provides protection against contracting chickenpox during pregnancy. If the test shows positive immunity, the risk of developing chickenpox and transmitting it to the fetus is virtually eliminated. Women planning pregnancy or in early pregnancy without known immunity should get this test to assess their risk level.

When should I get tested for varicella immunity?

You should get tested if you are planning to become pregnant and do not know your chickenpox immunity status, if you are in early pregnancy without confirmed immunity, if you have been exposed to someone with chickenpox while pregnant, or if you never had chickenpox as a child and were never vaccinated. Testing is especially important before conception so you can receive the varicella vaccine if needed, as the vaccine cannot be given during pregnancy.

What are the symptoms of Congenital Varicella Syndrome?

Infants born with Congenital Varicella Syndrome may have skin scarring in a zigzag pattern, limb abnormalities including shortened or malformed arms and legs, neurological problems such as developmental delays and seizures, eye defects including cataracts and small eyes, and low birth weight with poor growth. The severity of symptoms varies widely, with some infants having mild effects while others experience multiple serious complications that can be life-threatening.

Who is at risk for Congenital Varicella Syndrome?

Pregnant women who have never had chickenpox and were never vaccinated against varicella-zoster virus are at highest risk, particularly if they are exposed to chickenpox during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. Women who work in settings with children, healthcare workers, and those living in households with young children face increased exposure risk. Women from tropical climates may also be at higher risk as chickenpox is often acquired later in life in these regions, meaning they may reach childbearing age without immunity.

What happens if Congenital Varicella Syndrome is left untreated?

Congenital Varicella Syndrome cannot be reversed once it occurs, as the damage happens during fetal development. Infants born with the syndrome face lifelong complications including physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities, vision problems, and increased risk of early death. Without proper medical care and early intervention services, affected children may experience severe developmental delays and reduced quality of life. This is why prevention through maternal immunity testing and vaccination before pregnancy is so critical.

Can Congenital Varicella Syndrome be diagnosed with a blood test?

The syndrome itself is diagnosed in infants through physical examination and imaging studies, not blood tests. However, blood testing plays a crucial role in prevention by identifying pregnant women who lack immunity to varicella-zoster virus. The VZV IgG antibody test can determine if a woman is protected against chickenpox before she becomes pregnant or in early pregnancy, allowing for preventive measures. If a pregnant woman is exposed to chickenpox, additional blood tests can detect acute infection.

How is Congenital Varicella Syndrome treated?

There is no cure for Congenital Varicella Syndrome once the fetal damage has occurred. Treatment focuses on managing the various complications and supporting the child's development through physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and special education services. Surgical interventions may be needed for limb abnormalities, eye problems, or other physical defects. The best approach is prevention through maternal immunity testing before pregnancy and vaccination of non-immune women at least one month before conception.

How can I prevent Congenital Varicella Syndrome?

Prevention starts with getting tested for varicella immunity before pregnancy using the VZV IgG antibody test. If you test negative for immunity, receive the two-dose varicella vaccine series at least one month before trying to conceive. If you are already pregnant and lack immunity, avoid contact with anyone who has chickenpox or shingles, practice good hand hygiene, and consult your healthcare provider immediately if you are exposed to the virus. Varicella-zoster immune globulin (VZIG) can be given within 10 days of exposure to reduce the risk of maternal infection.

What can I do at home to protect against varicella during pregnancy?

If you lack immunity to chickenpox and are pregnant, avoid crowded places during chickenpox outbreaks, keep distance from anyone with a rash or known chickenpox infection, and avoid contact with people who have shingles, which is caused by the same virus. Maintain good hygiene by washing hands frequently, especially after being in public spaces. If someone in your household develops chickenpox, isolate them in a separate room if possible and avoid sharing towels, utensils, or bedding. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you develop a fever or rash.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Congenital Varicella Syndrome Test

Congenital Varicella Syndrome Blood Test

What is Congenital Varicella Syndrome?

Congenital Varicella Syndrome is a rare birth defect that occurs when a pregnant woman contracts chickenpox during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus crossing the placenta and infecting the developing fetus. The Varicella-Zoster Virus Antibodies IgG test is the most important test for assessing maternal immunity and preventing this condition.

Written by Private MD Labs Medical Team

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]