Herpes Zoster Infections In Healthy Children

Objective: Herpes zoster (HZ) is a vesicular cutaneous infection caused by reactivation of the latent varicella-zoster virus from dorsal root ganglia characterized by dermatome distribution. It is usually seen in the elderly; pediatric zoster is rare. In this study we evaluated 14 patients who were admitted to our pediatric clinic and diagnosed with HZ.Material and Methods: Fourteen patients aged from 12 months to 15 years who were admitted to our pediatric clinic with the complaint of a rash between January and December of 2008, were prospectively evaluated. A history of previous varicella, varicella vaccine, chronic disease, immune deficiency, immunosuppressive therapy, trauma, operation, radiation and stress was investigated. Dermatomal distribution of the rash was established in all patients.Results: Of 14 patients who were diagnosed with herpes zoster, 10 were female. The median age was 10.5 years. The thoracic dermatome was involved in 11 patients, lumbar in 1 and trigeminal in 2. None of the patients received systemic antiviral therapy, only local therapy was given. Patients were observed for complications and none were reported.Conclusion: Herpes zoster may be seen in healthy children with no immunosuppresion and in these children the course of the infection is good. Complications are seen rarely and recovery occurs without treatment.