Pediatric herpes zoster with mild cutaneous dissemination

The textbook division of herpes zoster into segmental or disseminated is too simple and limited. Like all diseases, herpes zoster presents as a spectrum of disease. Mild cutaneous dissemination represents a "transition zone" in this spectrum and appears to be a benign clinical variant. This case of pediatric herpes zoster with mild cutaneous dissemination did not need aggressive inpatient treatment with IV agents; appropriate treatment included close follow-up. Optional treatment with high-dose oral acyclovir was also instituted.