Herpes zoster developing within recent subciliary incision scar

Abstract

Herpes zoster is a common dermatologic disease characterized by unilateral pain and vesicular lesions over the unilateral sensory dermatomes being caused by the reactivation of varicella zoster virus, and its incidence seems to be increasing recently. In case of involving the ganglion of the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal nerve), it can descend down the affected nerve into the skin, then producing an eruption in the dermatome. Among the patients with this disease, about 40% to 50% had associated conditions such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, pulmonary tuberculosis, liver diseases, peptic ulcer, hypothyroidism, or pharyngitis but rarely facial trauma. Generally, herpes zoster was commonly associated with systemic disorders, and the treatment duration was prolonged in associated diseases. However, herpes zoster occurring specifically at the site of previously traumatized facial bone has not yet been reported. Retrospective study of 1 case of herpes zoster with blow-out fracture, which had been treated with acyclovir and steroid, was done. Follow-up length was about 3 months. After treatment, the patient became stable, and there was no complication. We treated herpes zoster developing within a recent operative subciliary scar, and the case is presented with the review of literature. Finally, facial trauma or reconstruction of the orbital floor with alloplastic implant might be a risk factor for herpes zoster in traumatized patient.