Herpes zoster, is also referred to as shingles is a viral infection caused by the same virus that causes chicken pox. Individuals that have had chickenpox can later develop shingles. The virus remains dormant or inactive in certain nerve root cells of the body and then secondary to a weaken immune system the virus can erupt. Diseases that weaken the immune system include leukemia, lymphoma, HIV, chemotherapy, steroid treatment, etc. Some 20 percent of those individuals who have had chicken pox will get zoster at some point during their lives. Fortunately, most individuals only have one episode of shingles.

Shingles present as a burning tingling pain or as an area general on one side of the body that is extremely sensitive. The symptoms may be present from 1-3 days prior to the presentation of a rash. The rash soon develops into a group of blisters that look very similar to chickenpox. These lesions can last from one to two weeks. The blisters resolve, however, then pus or dark blood begins to collect in the area prior to them crusting over to form a scab.

This picture depicts a common lesion when the Herpes Zoster infects a region on the chest of a male patient.

This picture depicts a common lesion when the Herpes Zoster infects a region on left side of a male patient.

This picture depicts a common lesion when the Herpes Zoster infects a region on the back of a female patient.

This picture depicts a common lesion when the Herpes Zoster infects a female breast.

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