Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus

Comments:
Herpes Zoster (aka Shingles): Involvement of ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve (Vth cranial nerve) is referred to as herpes zoster ophthalmicus. One half of the forehead and the side of the nose show confluent papules, vesicles, and hemorrhagic crusted erosions in this patient. The eyelid is shut due to tremendous swelling. This condition can lead to several complications, including uveitis, keratitis, conjunctivitis, retinitis, optic neuritis, glaucoma, proptosis, cicatricial lid retraction, and extraocular muscle palsies. In rare cases, there may even be retinal necrosis.

Hutchinson Sign: The presence of lesions at the tip, side or root of the nose in herpes zoster is referred to as Hutchinson sign. A positive Hutchinson sign is a predictor of involvement of the globe (eye).