Zoster in patients infected with HIV: A review

Varicella-zoster virus (VZV), a member of the human herpesvirus family, cau ses childhood chickenpox (varicella), becomes latent in sensory ganglia, an d reactivates years later in immunocompromised and elderly persons to produ ce shingles (herpes tester). Early in the AIDS epidemic, tester was noted i n adults and children infected with HIV. Severe and debilitating zoster-ass ociated dermatological, ophthalmic, and neurological complications may occu r in patients infected with HIV. Antiviral therapy can modify the duration of tester and alleviate its attendant complications. Varicella vaccine may boost the immunity and prevent virus reactivation. VZV immune globulin (VZI G) prevents or modifies clinical illness in persons who have been exposed t o varicella or tester.