Post-herpetic Neuralgia

PHN is a chronic neuropathic pain syndrome following herpes zoster infection. Clinical features include persistent burning, stabbing, or allodynic pain in the affected dermatome. Pathophysiology involves viral-induced nerve injury and central sensitization. Diagnosis is clinical, based on history of shingles and persistent pain. Management includes anticonvulsants, tricyclic antidepressants, topical agents, and nerve blocks; prognosis improves over time, but pain may be long-lasting in older adults.