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Shingles
(NF019)

Introduction

Herpes zoster (commonly called "shingles") results from reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) acquired during a primary varicella infection (chickenpox). Primary VZV infection occurs when a susceptible individual (usually a child) is exposed to airborne virus via a respiratory route. Over 90% of adults in the United States have evidence of prior VZV infection on blood testing.

While zoster can erupt on almost any part of the body, the most common areas are the face and the torso. The characteristic rash of herpes zoster is often preceded by a prodrome of burning pain, itching or sensitivity of the affected area.

The skin lesions begin as a red, raised rash that follows a dermatomal distribution. The rash evolves into small fluid-filled blisters (vesicles) on a reddened base. The vesicles are generally painful, and their development is often associated with the occurrence of flu-like symptoms and anxiety. The vesicles eventually become cloudy and may bleed. Within 7-10 days, the vesicles crust over. As these crusts fall off, scarring and changes in skin color may remain.

While medications do not cure zoster infections, they have been found to help shorten the duration and discomfort of the outbreak. Perhaps more importantly, antiviral medications have been found to help reduce or prevent the occurrence of postherpetic neuralgia pain.

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The Medifocus Guide on Shingles provides answers to the following important questions and medical issues:


What Your Doctor Reads:

This MediFocus Guide contains an extensive listing of citations and abstracts of recent journal articles that have been published about this condition in trustworthy medical journals. This is the same type of information that is available to physicians and other health care professionals. A partial selection of journal articles that are abstracted in this MediFocus Guide includes:


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