Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus in Two Virally Suppressed HIV-Positive Patients: Early Initiation of Therapy Improves Visual Outcome

Abstract

Herpes Zoster is a viral infection, which occurs with reactivation of the Varicella Zoster Virus that has lain dormant in the dorsal or cranial root ganglia. It is often a painful rash, but may also occur as pain along a dermatome, but without a rash. The involvement of the ophthalmic branch of the Trigeminal nerve gives rise to Herpes Zoster Opthalmicus, with its potential risk of visual loss. Here we present a case of Herpes Zoster Opthalmicus in two virally suppressed HIV positive men, each having a different outcome as a result of the intervention of the intensive clinical mentorship by the National AIDS, Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infections Program, NASCP, which culminated in the adoption of best practices and improved clinical outcome and prevention of a catastrophic eye event.