# Herpes Zoster: A Rare Dermatosis in Childhood (About 25 Cases)

## TL;DR

This study examines 25 children with herpes zoster, a rare skin condition caused by the varicella-zoster virus, and finds that it usually resolves without complications.

## Contribution

The study provides clinical insights into herpes zoster in unvaccinated children, emphasizing its rarity and favorable outcomes in most cases.

## Key findings

- All 25 children with herpes zoster had a favorable outcome without long-term complications.
- Nine patients were immunocompromised, and these cases were more severe and required specific treatment.
- Laboratory testing for immunodeficiency is unnecessary in typical childhood shingles cases with normal exams.

## Abstract

Introduction: Herpes zoster is a viral dermatosis that occurs after reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV). The aim of this study is to illustrate the epidemiological and clinical aspects, as well as the complications, of herpes zoster in children.

Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive, prospective study of a series of 25 children followed for herpes zoster over a 3 year period in the dermatology department of CHU Ibn Rochd in Casablanca.

Results: There were 16 boys and 9 girls, with a mean age of 8.05 years. None of the patients had been vaccinated against varicella. Nine patients were immunocompromised. All patients were treated with antivirals, analgesics, antiseptics, and antibiotics (for seven infected patients). All patients had a favorable outcome with no sequelae.

Discussion: VZV belongs to the Herpesviridae family, an enveloped virus with a DNA genome. It has a particular affinity for the skin, nervous system, and lungs. Shingles is a rare disease in children, which typically follows a favorable course without sequelae. In children with shingles, if the history and physical examination are normal, laboratory testing for occult immunodeficiency or malignancy is not necessary. The diagnosis is primarily clinical. Except for ophthalmic forms, complicated cases, and immunocompromised patients, no specific treatment is required. In immunocompromised children, the infection is usually severe and disseminated, leading to high morbidity and mortality, and requires specific intravenous antiviral treatment.

Conclusion: Herpes zoster is a rare condition in children, typically evolving without sequelae.