Herpes zoster infections: epidemiology, diagnostics, and prophylaxis in light of a growing clinical problem

Abstract

Herpes zoster (HZ) is an infectious disease that develops from reactivation of latent infection with the of the chickenpox and varicella zoster virus (VZV). Particularly vulnerable are the elderly and patients with weakened immune system function, including especially patients with cancers of the hematopoietic and lymphatic systems and lymphatic systems or solid tumors. HZ is often accompanied by complications, most often in the form of herpes zoster neuralgia, hearing or vision loss or vasculopathy. Antiviral prophylaxis reduces the risk of HZ in patients with impaired immune system function, but does not reduce the risk of developing complications, especially neuralgia. For this reason, the importance of immunization against the VZV, especially in groups at increased risk of contracting the disease. The article collects current data on the epidemiology of infection, the course of infection and current opportunities for prevention of HZ infections.