Shingles (herpes zoster)

Description

A viral infection caused by varicella zoster virus (reactivated chicken pox virus). After recovery from the chicken pox, some particles of the virus may live for decades. Those survived viruses live in the clusters of nerve cells, which are called root of the nerves, where they are protected from your immune system. Virus appears again many years afterwards and causes painful lesions that look like pimples. They usually appear only on one side of the body and are localized in one area. Stress, ages and other infections can cause re-activation of the virus.

Symptoms

At the beginning the skin is pricking and burning, after which comes pain that can be intense. Later develops a rash which consists of bruises, blisters, pimples and scabs. The rash is usually only on the one side of the body and in one area. Unfortunatelly, some patients can have permanent symptoms after the rash has disappeared. It is called postherpetic neuralgia.

Overview

History of disease is being taken and physical examination is being done. If needed, swab of the fluid from the blister is done to identify the virus.

Tests

Viral antigen, identification in the swab of the lesion.

Specialists

General Practice, Infectology, Internal Medicine

Therapy

Treatment includes antiviral drugs (acyclovir), analgesics and steroids. The sooner it starts, the treatment is more successful.