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Colonic pseudo-obstruction due to herpes zoster
Gabriel Rodrigues1, Lavanya Kannaiyan, Mahesh Gopasetty
1Department of General Surgery, Kasturba Medical College and Hospital, Manipal, Karnataka. gabyrodricks@eudoramail.com
Summary
Herpes zoster (varicella zoster) can rarely cause visceral motor complications. This case highlights a patient who developed acute colonic pseudo-obstruction following a herpes zoster outbreak.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Disease
Background:
- Herpes zoster (varicella zoster) is a viral infection known for its dermatomal rash.
- Visceral complications are infrequent but recognized sequelae of herpes zoster.
Observation:
- A 59-year-old male presented with symptoms suggestive of intestinal obstruction.
- The patient had a preceding history of a typical dermatomal herpes zoster rash.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with acute colonic pseudo-obstruction.
- This gastrointestinal complication was temporally associated with the herpes zoster infection.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering visceral complications in patients with herpes zoster.
- Recognizing this association may aid in earlier diagnosis and management of rare gastrointestinal manifestations of varicella zoster virus reactivation.