Review on Herpes Zoster

The Varicella-Zoster Virus (VZV), which is latent in the dorsal root ganglia following a first infection (chickenpox), can reactivate to cause Herpes Zoster, sometimes referred to as shingles. It usually appears as a severe, vesicular rash that is limited to a single dermatome and mostly affects elderly adults and immunocompromised people. In addition to causing severe neuropathic pain, the condition can cause secondary bacterial infections, ocular involvement, and post herpetic neuralgia (PHN). To lessen the intensity and duration of symptoms, prompt identification and antiviral medication beginning are crucial. The frequency and consequences of illness in older people have been considerably decreased by immunization advancements, especially the recombinant zoster vaccine (Shingrix). Despite these developments, there are still difficulties in treating chronic pain and creating treatments that target dormant viral reservoirs. In addition to outlining current issues and potential research avenues for better patient care, this review covers the aetiology, pathophysiology, clinical characteristics, diagnosis, treatment options, and recent advancements in the prevention and management of herpes zoster.