Will shingles leave scars?
May 18, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
In general, younger patients tend to develop milder rashes, primarily presenting as erythema, papules, or papulovesicles; these lesions are typically superficial and usually do not result in scarring. However, in elderly patients with compromised physical condition, herpes zoster may manifest as hemorrhagic vesicles or serous vesicles, and in more severe cases, secondary pustules may develop. Hemorrhagic vesicles and pustules tend to be deeper in location.
Herpes zoster (shingles) is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV) and can occur on various body regions, including the waist, intercostal nerves, neck, head and face, and limbs. Some individuals worry that shingles may leave scars after recovery. So, does herpes zoster cause scarring?
Does herpes zoster cause scarring?
In general, younger patients tend to develop milder rashes—primarily erythematous macules, papules, or papulovesicles—that remain superficial and typically do not result in scarring. However, in elderly or immunocompromised individuals, the rash may manifest as hemorrhagic vesicles or even secondary pustules. These deeper lesions involve the dermis or the deep basal layer of the epidermis; thus, after absorption of the vesicular fluid, they may leave shallow scars at the affected sites.
The causative agent of herpes zoster is the varicella-zoster virus. During primary infection, it presents as chickenpox. Subsequently, the virus enters cutaneous sensory nerve endings and travels retrogradely along spinal nerve roots to establish lifelong latency within dorsal root ganglia. When host cell-mediated immunity declines—such as during common colds, malignancies, systemic lupus erythematosus, burns, severe trauma, certain medications, neurological disorders, or fatigue—the latent virus may reactivate, causing herpes zoster in the corresponding dermatomal distribution.
Therefore, prompt and active treatment is essential upon diagnosis of herpes zoster. We hope this article has been helpful to you!
