Herpes zoster: a consideration in the differential diagnosis of radiculopathy |
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Authors: | K A Burkman R W Gaines S R Kashani R D Smith |
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Affiliation: | Department of PM&R, Rusk Rehabilitation Center, Columbia, MO 65212. |
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Abstract: | Herpes zoster probably occurs more often than generally thought. Since it produces a radicular distribution of pain, it should be included in the differential diagnosis of radiculopathy. A case is presented in which evaluating the radicular low back pain before the characteristic rash appears was misleading. Careful history-taking concerning the exact nature of the pain and sensory changes is needed to differentiate between zoster and radiculopathy, if no rash is evident. |
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