Diagnosis and management of ophthalmic zoster sine herpete accompanied by cervical spine disc protrusion: A case report

Abstract

BACKGROUND Zoster sine herpete (ZSH) can be misdiagnosed because there are no typical vesicular eruptions characterized by a dermatomal distribution. However, incorrect treatment due to a misdiagnosis can lead to severe pain and fatal complications. CASE SUMMARY A 75-year-old woman complained of sudden onset right shoulder pain and atypical headache. After 18 d, sudden hearing loss occurred in the left ear. In serology tests conducted after the onset of hearing loss, varicella-zoster virus IgM was positive. She had no history of a rash or trauma. Under the suspicion of ZSH, antiviral treatment and stellate ganglion block were administered four times, and the pain was effectively controlled. CONCLUSION Early diagnosis and treatment of ZSH can help not only by reducing pain but also by preventing fatal complications.