Retrospective Analysis of 170 Patients Followed up with Herpes Zoster and Postherpetic Neuralgia in Nothern Cyprus

Dua Cebeci; Seide Karasel

doi:10.3889/oamjms.2021.6251

Authors

Dua Cebeci Department of Dermatology and Venerology, Famagusta State Hospital, Famagusta, Cyprus https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5746-9326
Seide Karasel Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Famagusta State Hospital, Famagusta, Cyprus

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3889/oamjms.2021.6251

Keywords:

Herpes zoster, Incidence, Neuralgia, Primary care, Risk factors

Abstract

Herpes zoster is viral infection that occurs with reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). It is usually a painful but self-limited dermatomal rash with cutaneous distribution. Although it's usually a painful, self-limiting rash, it can be much more serious; In addition, acute cases often lead to postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) and seriously impair quality of life. It is important to recognize those at risk of developing postherpetic neuralgia, early treatment and prevent complications.

Objectives :Our aim is to determine the clinical features of our herpes zoster diseases and to review the treatments in patients with postherpetic neuralgia.

Methods: A search for HZ and PHN was conducted in a general practice research database, comprising 2 general practices( dermatologist and physatrist) and representing 5600 people. We analyzed a retrospective 170 case series of pediatirc and adults addmited to the dermatology and physical therapy and rehabilitation outpatient clinic between October 2018 and October 2020.

Results: A total of 170 new cases had been diagnosed with HZ in the dermatology and physical therapy and rehabilitation clinics over 2 years . Female to male ratio was 2:1 and the age ranged from 5 years to 88 years. The thoracic dermatomes were the most commonly involved. The risk of developing PHN 1 month after the start of the zoster rash was 21 %. Independent risk indicators for the occurrence of PHN were age [55–74] years.

Conclusion : The risk of developing PHN increases with age and with commorbitity. Preventive strategies such as vaccination should focus on patients with herpes zoster aged >55 years.

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