Abstract
The Herpes zoster virus is DNA virus. After the initial infection has been treated, the virus remains dormant in a ganglion until reactivation of the latent virus resulting in shingles - Herpes zoster.
Herpes zoster ophthalmicus is defined as a classic dermatomal rash in the ophthalmic division of the trigeminal nerve. It represents approximately 10 to 25 percent of all cases of herpes zoster.
Patients with herpes zoster may develop conjunctivitis, keratitis, uveitis and retinal disorders. Lasting effects of this infection may include chronic eye inflammation, neuropathic pain or even loss of vision.
Antiviral drugs such as aciclovir, famciclovir and valaciclovir remain the mainstay of treatment and can be effective in preventing ocular disability if treatment is started within 72 hours after the onset of skin manifestations. Early diagnosis and treatment of ophthalmic herpes zoster are important prevention of visual impairment.
When skin manifestation is present it is advised to also run appropriate ophthalmological examinations. This work deals with the herpes zoster virus, the clinical picture, diagnosis and therapy.