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. 2009:2009:bcr07.2008.0452.
doi: 10.1136/bcr.07.2008.0452. Epub 2009 Feb 16.

Herpes zoster induced acute urinary retention in the immunocompetent female

John Biddlestone  1 , Lokesh Suraparaju, Nimish Shah
Affiliations

Herpes zoster induced acute urinary retention in the immunocompetent female

John Biddlestone et al. BMJ Case Rep. 2009.

Abstract

We present a rare case of acute urinary retention complicated by constipation secondary to a unilateral herpes zoster reactivation in the S2-4 dermatomes of an immunocompetent female. Diagnosis was confirmed by clinical examination, negative cystoscopy and positive viral polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for herpes zoster virus. The patient was commenced on a course of oral acyclovir, the bowel symptoms resolved, and the patient was discharged with a urinary catheter in situ for an outpatient trial without catheter for 2 weeks to be followed by a course of intermittent self catheterisation pending resolution of symptoms.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Rash on the left buttock in the S2–4 dermatomal distribution (healing phase).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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