HERPES ZOSTER

Herpes Zoster or shingles is an acute vesicular eruption due to Varicella zoster virus. It usually occurs in adults. With rare exceptions patients suffer only one attack. Herpes lesions consist of grouped tense, deep-seated vesicles distributed unilaterally along a dermatome. However, rarely Herpes zoster duplex symmetricus can occur. The most common distributions are on the trunk or face. Immunocompromised patients can get it more frequently and are the candidates for antiviral therapy. HIV patients are 20 time more likely to develop Herpes zoster and HIV testing should be considered in patients younger than 55 years.