HERPES-ZOSTER OPHTHALMICUS MIMICKING CAROTID-ARTERY DISSECTION - A CASE-REPORT

Herpes tester is a common viral illness presenting with vesicular erup tions which are usually preceded by pain, erythema, and tenderness in a dermatomal distribution. The ophthalmic division of the trigeminal n erve is commonly involved (herpes tester ophthalmicus). Early diagnosi s before eruption of vesicles can be difficult and symptoms may be con fused with other neurologic disorders. We present a patient with herpe s tester ophthalmicus who presented with face and neck pain associated with visual symptoms mimicking carotid artery dissection. Atypical pr esentation and benefits of early antiviral treatment are discussed.