Ultra-High-Voltage Pulsed Radiofrequency Combined With Escitalopram for Refractory Postherpetic Itch in the Trigeminal Nerve

Postherpetic itch (PHI) is a common complication of herpes zoster, predominantly affecting the head and face, and significantly impacting patients' quality of life. Few studies have addressed the concerns of PHI, and its available treatments have shown limited efficacy. We report a case of PHI in the trigeminal nerve in which a novel combination of ultra-high-voltage pulsed radiofrequency and escitalopram achieved significant relief of itch. This combined approach may provide a safe and effective option for intractable PHI.

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Publication Details

Journal
Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
Published
2026-01-20
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1097/scs.0000000000012431
Primary Topic
Herpesvirus Infections and Treatments
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
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article

Ultra-High-Voltage Pulsed Radiofrequency Combined With Escitalopram for Refractory Postherpetic Itch in the Trigeminal Nerve

Zhanjie Ren, Yongji Zhai, Ziqi Xu
Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
Herpesvirus Infections and Treatments
article

Ultra-High-Voltage Pulsed Radiofrequency Combined With Escitalopram for Refractory Postherpetic Itch in the Trigeminal Nerve

Zhanjie Ren, Yongji Zhai, Ziqi Xu
article en

Abstract

Postherpetic itch (PHI) is a common complication of herpes zoster, predominantly affecting the head and face, and significantly impacting patients' quality of life. Few studies have addressed the concerns of PHI, and its available treatments have shown limited efficacy. We report a case of PHI in the trigeminal nerve in which a novel combination of ultra-high-voltage pulsed radiofrequency and escitalopram achieved significant relief of itch. This combined approach may provide a safe and effective option for intractable PHI.

Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
Second Hospital of Shandong University (CN)
Openalex Percentile: Top 83%
Herpesvirus Infections and Treatments
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