Urological manifestations of herpes zoster

Herpes zoster is an infection caused by the varicella virus. Inflammatory reaction can involve the spinal cord and anterior horn cells causing varied neurological disorders including urological alterations. We reviewed 57 patients who suffered herpes zoster between 1984 and 1991. 15 of them (26%) showed urological manifestations: 2 cases acute urinary retention, 3 patients urinary incontinence and 10 cases had a cystitis-like syndrome. The clinical findings and diagnostic procedures are studied. The possible etiological mechanisms are discussed. The literature is reviewed.