An unusual presentation of Herpes zoster and associated differentials

This case study documents the case of a 27-year-old female who presented with a complaint of left anterolateral thigh numbness, initially diagnosed as meralgia paresthetica with a differential diagnosis of lumbar radiculopathy. Over a span of two weeks, the patient endured emotional trauma and subsequently developed lesions in the area of complaint. The patient was diagnosed at a medical clinic with herpes zoster and was prescribed anti-viral medication which resulted in complete resolution. This case highlights the importance of considering herpes zoster as a differential diagnosis for nerverelated symptoms. Features of lumbar radiculopathy, meralgia paresthetica, varicella zoster and herpes zoster are discussed, as well as the defining characteristics and treatment options. Practitioners must remain vigilant in suspicion of viral infections such as herpes zoster even with lower incidence due to approved vaccines.