Smallpox: what every otolaryngologist should know

Abstract

Objective In light of recent terrorist events and the potential threat of smallpox as a biological agent, we present information concerning smallpox to better inform the otolaryngologist concerning this disease and its prevention. Study design We performed a review of the smallpox and smallpox vaccination literature over the past 200 years using MEDLINE, PREMEDLINE, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Internet site, World Health Organization Internet site, and references found in previous publications not found in MEDLINE or PREMEDLINE. Our search focused on the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, course, unique manifestations in the head and neck, diagnosis, and treatment of smallpox, as well as the method of smallpox vaccination, vaccination contraindications, and complications. Results Smallpox is a viral disease with a high mortality rate. Its clinical course, manifestations, and methods of prevention are carefully analyzed in light of otolaryngology practice. Conclusion Smallpox manifestations in the head and neck often presented as acute airway obstruction and also as long-term sequelae such as ectropion, nasal vestibular stenosis, conductive hearing loss, and blindness. Most chronic sequelae involve the head and neck. Smallpox vaccination is effective but not without potential serious risks.