Herpes Zoster mimicking odontogenic pain

  • Lee, Jae-Ik (Department of Conservative Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Yonsei University)
  • Published : 2001.05.01

Abstract

;The Varicella zoster virus can cause two infectious diseases. The primary infection of this virus leads to Chicken pox and it goes into a latent period until it reveals itself again. When secondarily shown. it is called Herpes Zoster. Herpes Zoster can usually be seen between T-3 and L-2 of immunodepressant patients but in 13%. it is seen in the trigeminal nerve branch. During the predrominal stage. burning sensation, itching. and sharp pain can be experienced unilaterally where the nerve branch is distributed. Patients can also express tooth pain in this stage. After 2-4 days the acute stage begins with its characteristic unilateral macule showing vesicle formation. In this stage fever and fatigue can be experienced. Continuous pain even after the acute stage is called postherpetic neuralgia; deep pain and burning sensation can be expressed by the patient. The sequelae of this disease consists of rare osteomyelitis. necrosis of the jaws. or loss of teeth.teeth.

Keywords