Segmental zoster abdominal paresis mimicking an abdominal hernia: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Rationale: Herpes zoster infection typically involves the posterior root ganglia and most of the symptoms are sensory. Motor involvement can occur in the same distribution but is relatively uncommon. Segmental zoster paresis is a rare motor complication of Herpes zoster, mimicking an abdominal hernia, but it needs no surgery different from the real abdominal wall hernia.

Patient concerns: We present a case of a 58-year-old man with an abdominal protrusion and characteristical herpes zoster rash.

Diagnoses: Initially, the surgeon regarded it as an abdominal hernia, while ultrasonography excluded the abdominal wall defect, and then the dermatologist diagnosed it as segmental herpes zoster abdominal paralysis.

Interventions: He received a treatment with oral acyclovir, mecobalamin, and vitamin B1.

Outcomes: The abdominal wall bulge disappeared after 2 months, avoiding unnecessary surgery.

Lessons: Segmental zoster abdominal paresis, mimicking an abdominal hernia needs no surgery.

Figure 1

A: Dark red pigmentation can be seen on the right side of his abdomen in the area innervated by the 9th to 11th thoracic nerves. B: A 20 × 10 cm marked bulge on the right side of his abdomen. C: The abdominal bulge almost completely relieved after 2 months of treatment.