Disseminated herpes zoster

Eleven case of disseminated herpes zoster (DHZ) who were hospitalised in the Dermatovenereology ward from January 1992 to April 1995 were selected for this study. All had classical herpes zoster (HZ) but within another 2 to 15 days had developed aberrant vesicles on the trunk, limbs and face. None of them had serious associated immunosuppressive disorder or malignancy. However, 3 cases had diabetes mellitus, 2 were receiving prednisolone 15 mg daily for the last few days, 2 had anaemia and deficiencies and 1 had a urinary tract infection. Only one patient needed oral acyclovir therapy. All were cured without any sequelae.