Zoster-associated Neuropathy

Zoster-associated neuropathy results from reactivation of varicella-zoster virus affecting sensory ganglia. Clinical features include acute radicular pain, vesicular rash, and postherpetic neuralgia. Pathophysiology involves viral-mediated inflammation and nerve damage. Diagnosis is clinical, supported by PCR or serology in atypical cases. Management includes antiviral therapy, analgesics, and neuropathic pain medications; prognosis is generally favorable, though postherpetic pain may persist in some patients.