HERPES ZOSTER (HZ) is due to reactivation of varicella zoster virus ( VZV) and is characterized by vesicular or bullous eruption and is limited to a dermatome(s) innervated by corresponding ganglion.
it is other wise know as shingles
The common risk factor is due to diminishing immunity to HZV with advancing age. In patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiotherapy, HIV infected persons are more vulnerable for increased incidence..
the complaint precedes with severe neuritis or paraesthesia for for a few weeks followed by vesiculations.
Post Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN) is the pain that is persisting even after healing the leisons. HZ usually starts with flulike symptoms. complication can be hemorrhage (local), gangrene, pericarditis, myocarditis, pancreatitis etc;
Medicinal management
For pain- hypericum, Rhus Tox, Rananculus bulb- in high potencies
During eruption- Rtox, Msol, cicuta etc in low potencies
For PHN- Rtox, Thuja, Mez ( Facial Herpes), Variolinum in high potencies.
