Herpes zoster infection presenting as an acute pulpitis

A major reason for referral to an endodontic practice is management of pain. Most cases are diagnosed as being of pulpal or periapical origin. However, some turn out quite differently than their initial appearance. This case report presents a patient referred to the endodontic clinic because of symptoms mimicking an irreversible pulpitis. On examination no obvious cause of the symptoms could be found. The patient was treated conservatively after which a herpes zoster viral infection was diagnosed. This case stresses the importance of a thorough investigation of all signs and symptoms and the delay of definitive treatment until a diagnosis is made.