Orofacial herpes zoster infection in dental practice: a case report

Abstract

Herpes zoster infection, commonly known as Shingles, is caused by reactivation of the Varicella-Zoster virus which may have remained latent in the dorsal root ganglia. It is characterized by prodromal symptoms of unilateral deep aching, burning pain followed by a maculopapular rash, vesicular eruptions, ulcers, and scab formations over the affected nerve distribution. The ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve is more commonly involved in herpes zoster infection than maxillary and mandibular branches; in particular, the maxillary involvement is rare. This is a case report of herpes zoster infection in a 65-years-old male patient involving the maxillary division of the trigeminal nerve. This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and prompt use of antivirals in managing orofacial infection in dental practice.