[Herpes zoster in children: about two cases]

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Dermatology

Background:

• Herpes zoster (shingles) is uncommon in children and generally benign.
• Antiviral therapy is reserved for severe cases, immunocompromised individuals, or ophthalmic involvement.
• Neonatal herpes zoster often results from intrauterine transmission during maternal varicella.

Observation:

• This report presents two cases of herpes zoster in immunocompetent children.
• The first case involved a neonate.
• The second case involved a 7-year-old child.

Findings:

• Both pediatric patients were immunocompetent, indicating herpes zoster can occur in healthy children.
• The cases illustrate the spectrum of herpes zoster presentation in pediatric populations.
• These cases underscore the importance of considering herpes zoster even in immunocompetent children.

Implications:

• These findings suggest that while rare, herpes zoster should be considered in the differential diagnosis of childhood rashes, even without known risk factors.
• Further research may elucidate specific triggers or risk factors for herpes zoster in immunocompetent pediatric populations.
• Clinical vigilance is necessary for timely diagnosis and management of pediatric herpes zoster.