Work

Herpes Zoster Without Vesicles: An Atypical Linear Erythematous Plaque on the Inner Thigh

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Herpes zoster (HZ), caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), typically presents with a painful, vesicular rash along a dermatomal distribution. This case reports an unusual presentation in a 44-year-old female with hypothyroidism and urticaria, who presented with a solitary, linear erythematous plaque on the inner thigh, associated with burning pain. Initial topical treatments were ineffective, but prompt antiviral therapy with acyclovir led to complete resolution within six weeks. The case highlights the diagnostic challenges posed by atypical presentations of HZ and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications, such as postherpetic neuralgia. It also emphasizes the need to consider HZ in differential diagnoses even in the absence of typical vesicular eruptions to facilitate timely intervention and improved patient outcomes.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.81825

Authors: Khadijah H Muzaffar, Abdullah Albadri

Institutions: Batterjee Medical College, King Fahad Hospital Jeddah

Language: English

Topic: Herpesvirus Infections and Treatments

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4409213621