Determinants of Hospital Length of Stay in Herpes Zoster Patients: A Four‐Year Retrospective Study
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: ABSTRACT Background and Aims The Varicella‐zoster virus (VZV) primarily causes chickenpox and can later reactivate as herpes zoster (HZ) from latent VZV in sensory ganglia. HZ generally presents with unilateral dermatomal pain and vesicular skin eruptions. Immunosuppression, advanced age, and underlying comorbidities increase the risk of severity, hospitalization, and longer length of stay (LOS), adding a substantial burden to the healthcare system. In this study, we examined factors influencing LOS in hospitalized HZ patients. Methods We aimed to identify factors contributing to prolonged LOS in hospitalized patients with confirmed HZ at a tertiary referral center in southwestern Iran, from March 2020 to September 2024. We performed statistical analyses to explore the relationships between demographics, clinical features, comorbidities, medications, and laboratory findings (ESR, CRP) with LOS. Results Of the 109 hospitalized HZ patients (50.5% female), the mean LOS was 6.1 ± 5.2 days. LOS showed significant correlations with elevated ESR ( r = 0.304, p = 0.006), severe complications like encephalitis and Ramsay Hunt Syndrome ( p < 0.001), and pre‐existing neurological and renal conditions ( p < 0.05). No links were observed with age, CRP levels, gender, or immunosuppressant drug use. Conclusion Severe neurological complications such as encephalitis and Ramsay Hunt syndrome, along with specific comorbidities and high ESR, notably extend hospital stays for HZ patients. These findings highlight the burden of severe HZ and identify key factors affecting LOS. By quantifying these elements, we provide practical insights to optimize inpatient care and emphasize the importance of prevention in high‐risk populations.
Source: Health Science Reports
DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.71427
Institutions: Shiraz University, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences
Language: English
Subfield: Epidemiology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,280
OpenAlex ID: W4415620019