In people with immune suppression, it represents reactivation of chickenpox. Zoster is frequently seen during the course of HIV infection and is particularly common in healthy appearing individuals before the onset of other symptoms. It may be particularly painful, necrotic and hemorrhagic in the HIV-infected population. Disseminated infection usually involves the skin and the visceral organs. Patient complains of painful skin blisters or ulcerations along one side of the face or body.
Patient complains of loss of vision secondary to the appearance of facial lesions.
Necrotic lesions may persist as long as 6 weeks. Particularly note lesions in the eye area, or tip of nose, along the trigeminal nerve. These represent a therapeutic emergency. If new blisters are still appearing at the end of treatment, repeat course of oral therapy or consider intravenous tx. Analgesics for pain, narcotics may be required.