Iranian Journal of Medical Microbiology

Background & Aims: Viral contributions to cerebrovascular disease are increasingly recognized. Varicella zoster virus (VZV) can cause a variety of pathologies in humans, including stroke, which increases the risk of developing the condition. As part of a broader pilot project on neurotropic herpesviruses (VZV/CMV/HSV), we evaluated varicella zoster virus (VZV) DNA in stroke patients versus controls.
Methods: In this pilot case–control study, whole blood was obtained from 28 consecutive adult stroke patients admitted to ICUs in northern Iran and 28 demographically matched controls without stroke. DNA was extracted and quality-checked by spectrophotometry and beta‑globin PCR (internal control). VZV DNA was detected by conventional PCR using virus‑specific primers. Statistical comparisons used chi‑square test.
Results & Conclusion: VZV DNA was detected in 7/28 (25.0%) stroke cases and 0/28 (0%) controls (χ² p=0.005). The analysis based on the chi-square test showed a significant association (p=0.005) with 95% confidence between the frequency of VZV and stroke. This pilot study suggests an association between VZV DNA and stroke. Given the limited sample size and cross‑sectional design, causality cannot be inferred and reactivation remains a plausible explanation. Larger, time‑resolved studies incorporating serology and mechanistic biomarkers are warranted.