Herpes zoster with dissemination

Abstract

Herpes zoster or shingles is an acute vesico-bullous cutaneous infection characterized by dermatomal distribution, predominantly in adults. Extensive cutaneous dissemination has been reported in immunocompromised patients. However, its existence is documented in immunocompetent individuals as well. We report two children with disseminated herpes zoster, one of whom was immunocompromised secondary to severe mal-nutrition and had associated orbital septal cellulitis.