Shingles Case Study

Abstract

Herpes Zoster Generalisatus: Report of a case successfully treated with Acyclovir Herpes zoster (shingles) is caused by the varicella-zoste virus. An attack is due to reactivation, usually for no apparent reason, of virus which has remained dormant in a sensory root ganglion since an earlier episode of varicella (chickenpox). The incidence of herpes zoster (HZ) is highest in old age, and in immunocompromised patients such as those with haematological malignancies, advanced HIV-disease and those receiving immunosuppresive drugs. Attacks usually start with burning pain, followed by erythema and grouped, sometimes bloodjilled vesicles scattered over one or more dermatomes. The clear vesicles quickly become purulent, and, over the space of a few days, rupture and become crusted, Crusts usually separate in 2-3 weeks, sometimes leaving depressed depigmented scars.