Clinical diagnosis of herpes zoster presenting as odontogenic pain

Abstract

Herpes zoster, an acute viral infection produced by the varicella zoster virus, may affect any of the trigeminal branches. This case report presents a patient with symptoms mimicking odontogenic pain. No obvious cause of the symptoms could be found based on clinical and radiographic examinations. After a dermatologist made a diagnosis of herpes zoster involving the third trigeminal branch, the patient was given antiviral therapy. Two months later, the facial lesions and pain had almost disappeared, and residual pigmented scars were present. During the diagnostic process, clinicians should keep in mind the possibility that orofacial pain might be related to herpes zoster. [J Kor Acad Cons Dent 33(5): [452][453][454][455][456] 2008]

Diagnostic challenges of nonodontogenic toothache

“…Without a thorough diagnosis, or in the absence of conclusive findings, a dentist may treat the pain as odontogenic toothache 7. These conditions that may mimic symptoms of odontogenic toothache are trigeminal neuralgia and burning mouth syndrome.…”

Involvement of Herpes Zoster in the Mandibular Branch of the Trigeminal Nerve: A New Case Report

“…The facial involvement usually includes the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve [5]. The involvement of mandibular branch is comparatively rare [3,6]. It may be accompanied by mucosal lesions and dental complications such as devitalized teeth, internal resorption and spontaneous exfoliation of the teeth [5].…”

Herpes Zoster Accompanying Odontogenic Inflammation: A Case Report with Literature Review

“…2). On panoramic x-ray, a periapical radiolucency associated with the mandibular right third During the prodromal stage in particular, the only presenting symptoms may be similar to pulpitis [7]. Approximately 10% of affected individuals will exhibit no prodromal pain.…”

“…Likewise, the skin lesions associated with erythema multiforme can mimic those of herpes zoster. In other words, the signs and symptoms of a herpes zoster infection of the mandibular branch of the trigeminal nerve can be misdiagnosed [7].…”

“…Intraorally, mucosal hyperpigmentation is evident, and the patient complains of a burning and stinging sensation of the skin and mouth [5]. Occasionally, patients complain of toothache or edema [6,7].…”