Recurrent herpes zoster in a child with SLE.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Rheumatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Dermatology

Background:

• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and lupus nephritis are chronic autoimmune conditions.
• Immunocompromised status in SLE patients increases susceptibility to infections.
• Herpes zoster (HZ), or shingles, is caused by the varicella-zoster virus reactivation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document a rare case of recurrent herpes zoster (RHZ) in a pediatric patient with SLE and lupus nephritis.
• To highlight the importance of vigilance for opportunistic infections in immunocompromised children.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 12-year-old girl with a history of SLE and type IV lupus nephritis.
• Documentation of two episodes of herpes zoster (HZ) affecting the same dermatomes.
• Treatment of the second HZ episode with oral acyclovir.

Main Results:

• The patient experienced two distinct episodes of herpes zoster (HZ) at ages nine and twelve.
• Both HZ episodes involved the same thoracic dermatomes on the right side.
• The second HZ episode was successfully treated with oral acyclovir.

Conclusions:

• Recurrent herpes zoster (RHZ) is a potential complication in pediatric patients with SLE and lupus nephritis.
• This case represents a likely first report of RHZ in a child in Indian medical literature.
• Prompt diagnosis and management of HZ are crucial in immunocompromised pediatric populations.