Colonic changes of herpes zoster

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Infectious Diseases
• Dermatology

Background:

• Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus reactivation.
• Cutaneous manifestations of herpes zoster are well-documented.
• Colonic involvement is an infrequent but recognized complication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the endoscopic findings of herpes zoster affecting the colon.
• To highlight diagnostic clues for this rare condition.

Main Methods:

• Case series review of three patients with confirmed herpes zoster and colonic lesions.
• Endoscopic examination of the colon.

Main Results:

• Observed small, polygonal mucosal blebs or ulcerations in a short colonic segment.
• Lesions appeared in temporal proximity to cutaneous herpes zoster.
• Dermatomal distribution of skin lesions was either corresponding or noncorresponding to the affected colon segment.

Conclusions:

• Herpes zoster of the colon presents with characteristic mucosal lesions.
• Diagnosis is facilitated by correlating colonic findings with cutaneous herpes zoster.
• Early recognition can prevent unnecessary invasive diagnostic procedures.