“…Reactivation of VZV may occur spontaneously or when host defences are compromised. Increased age 2,7–9 , physical trauma 1,2,8 (including dental manipulation 10,11 ), psychological stress 1,2,7,8 , malignancy 2 , radiation therapy 1 and immunocompromised states including transplant recipients, immunomodulatory therapy and HIV infection 12,13 are predisposing factors for VZV reactivation. Our patient, as well as others with compromised renal function, exhibits an impaired host immune response which may contribute to development of HZ 14 .…”