Herpes zoster

Herpes zoster
Term	Herpes zoster
Short definition	Herpes zoster (HER-peez ZOS-ter) A common condition that occurs when the virus that causes chickenpox becomes reactivated in the body. After chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body, usually in the nerves along the spinal cord or at the base of the skull.
Type	Cancer terms
Specialty	Oncology
Language	English
Source	NCI
Comments

Herpes zoster - (pronounced) (HER-peez ZOS-ter) A common condition that occurs when the virus that causes chickenpox becomes reactivated in the body. After chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body, usually in the nerves along the spinal cord or at the base of the skull. The virus can become active again many years later and cause herpes zoster. Herpes zoster is characterized by a painful rash that usually appears as small clusters of blisters. The blisters often form a band across the skin on one side of the body, particularly on the chest, back, waist, or face. Pain in the affected area can last for many weeks or months after the rash has gone away. Other symptoms may include fever, chills, headache, fatigue, and upset stomach. Herpes zoster is most common in older adults and those with compromised immune systems. It cannot be passed from person to person, but people who have never had chickenpox or the chickenpox vaccine can get chickenpox if they come into contact with a person who has herpes zoster. Vaccines are available to prevent herpes zoster. Also called shingles

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Herpes zoster
• Wikipedia's article - Herpes zoster

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