Extensive Disseminated Herpes Zoster in a Young Immunocompetent Male: A Rare Occurrence

Abstract

Herpes zoster is a viral infection caused by the reactivation of the varicella zoster virus. It usually presents with vesiculobullous lesions along a single dermatome. Disseminated herpes zoster (DHZ) is said to occur when there are more than 20 lesions outside the primarily affected dermatome. Cases of DHZ have been reported in elderly patients and those with states of immunosuppression such as HIV infections, cancer, post-COVID-19 infections, or patients on immunosuppressive drugs. However, here the authors are reporting a rare case of extensive cutaneous dissemination of herpes zoster in a young, healthy, immunocompetent male without any other comorbidities, treated successfully with intravenous acyclovir.