Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Background:Herpes zoster (HZ), also referred to as shingles, is a neurocutaneous viral infection that arises from the reactivation of the latent varicella-zoster virus. The present study was conducted to assess cases of Herpes zoster (HZ). Materials & Methods:46 child patients with Herpes zoster (HZ) of both genders were selected. Parameters such as comorbidities, treatment received for HZ infection, the season in which they were infected and complications were recorded. Results: Out of 46 patients, males were 26 and females were 20. The dermatomal area involved was thoracic segment in 23, cervical in 7, lumbar in 6, sacral in 5 and trigeminal segment in 5 patients. The season was winter in 32, spring in 10, and autumn in 4 patients. Comorbid diseases were anxiety disorder in 2 patients, atopic dermatitis in 1 and malignancy in 1 patient. Treatment given was acyclovir in 28, Brivudine in 14 and valacyclovir in 6 patients. The difference was significant (P< 0.05). Conclusion: The incidence of HZ infection in childhood is thought to be rare and associated with underlying immunological dysfunction.The most commonly involved dermatomal area was thoracic segment, cervical, lumbar, sacral and trigeminal segment. The season was winter, and spring.