The Clinical Profile and Ocular Manifestations of Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus- A Hospital Based Study

Background: Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus (HZO) occurs due to reactivation of latent varicella zoster virus within the gasserian ganglion involving the ophthalmic division of the trigeminal nerve. HZO often has a chronic course with significant ocular morbidity as eye is considered potentially serious of all sites of herpes zoster owing to its delicate nature. Purpose:1. To study the mode of presentation, ocular manifestations and complications of herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO) 2. To analyse the predisposing factors for the development of HZO. Materials and Methods: A prospective clinical study was done in 20 patients who were clinically diagnosed with HZO in the outpatient department of ophthalmology over a period of one year. They were subjected to a detailed general and ocular examination and were treated medically with close follow up. Result: Advancing age was the most common risk factor. Acute neuralgia was the commonest presenting symptom (75%). Ocular involvement was seen in 16 patients with no bilaterality. Conjunctiva (60%) was the most common ocular structure involved followed by Cornea (45%). Anterior uveitis (20%) was complicated by haemorrhagic uveitis and orbital apex syndrome with total external ophthalmoplegia. Post herpetic neuralgia was the commonest complication seen. Conclusion: The potential manifestations of HZO are myriad. Development of serious inflammatory complications was associated with delay in therapy. Hence timely diagnosis and management are critical in limiting ocular morbidity