infectious diseases
Herpes Zoster
Key Points
Herpes zoster is caused by reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (the cause of chickenpox) from its latent phase. A painful rash, usually crops of vesicles on an erythematous base, develops on one or more adjacent dermatomes. Fewer than 4% of patients have another outbreak of zoster, but many, particularly older patients, have persistent or recurrent pain for months or years (postherpetic neuralgia). Antivirals (acyclovir,famciclovir,valacyclovir) are beneficial, especially for patients who are immunocompromised. Analgesics are often necessary. Adults≥50 years and adults ≥ 19 years who are immunocompromised and at risk for zoster should be given recombinantzoster vaccinewhether they have had herpes zoster or not. 