What is herpes zoster of the eyelid?
Disease description:
My mother has recently experienced tearing and conjunctival congestion. After a hospital examination, she was diagnosed with herpes zoster of the eyelid. I would like to know what herpes zoster of the eyelid is.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
Herpes zoster ophthalmicus is a relatively severe eyelid disease caused by infection with the varicella-zoster virus. It is characterized by clustered, blister-like skin rashes appearing within the dermatomal distribution areas of the first branch of the trigeminal nerve—the ophthalmic nerve, particularly along the frontal nerve, lacrimal nerve, and nasociliary nerve. These rashes do not cross the central midline of the eyelid or nose and are confined to one side only. Herpes zoster ophthalmicus commonly occurs in middle-aged and elderly patients. It rarely recurs after recovery, and usually confers lifelong immunity. Symptoms include early systemic discomfort such as chills and nausea, followed by severe neuralgic pain in the affected area, photophobia, tearing, and skin redness and swelling. In later stages, clustered small transparent vesicles appear on the eyelid skin; these vesicles may become cloudy, form pustules, ulcerate and erode, and eventually dry and crust over. Treatment mainly involves a comprehensive approach including antiviral and antibiotic eye drops, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and neurotrophic medications.
