Postherpetic neuralgia

Postherpetic Neuralgia

Postherpetic neuralgia (pronunciation: post-her-pet-ic neu-ral-gia) is a complication of shingles, which is caused by the varicella zoster virus.

Etymology

The term "postherpetic neuralgia" is derived from the Latin "post" (after), "herpes" (a viral disease causing eruptions of small blistering), and "neuralgia" (nerve pain).

Definition

Postherpetic neuralgia is a condition characterized by persistent pain following an outbreak of shingles. The pain can last for months or even years after the shingles rash has healed. It is caused by damage to the nerve fibers during the shingles infection, which can lead to a prolonged sensation of pain in the area where the shingles rash occurred.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of postherpetic neuralgia is a persistent pain in the area where the shingles rash occurred. This pain can be severe and debilitating, and it can interfere with daily activities. Other symptoms may include sensitivity to touch, itching or numbness in the affected area, and a burning sensation.

Causes

Postherpetic neuralgia is caused by damage to the nerve fibers during a shingles infection. This damage can cause changes in the nerve fibers, which can lead to a prolonged sensation of pain even after the shingles rash has healed.

Treatment

Treatment for postherpetic neuralgia focuses on managing the pain and can include medications such as antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and opioids. Topical treatments, such as capsaicin cream or a lidocaine patch, may also be used.

Related Terms

External links

Medical encyclopedia article on Postherpetic neuralgia
Wikipedia's article - Postherpetic neuralgia

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