Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus in Young Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Noopur Gupta, Ritika Sachdev, Rajesh Sinha, Jeewan S. Tandon, Radhika
Primary Institution: All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
Hypothesis
What is the clinical profile of herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO) in adults younger than 40 years and how does it correlate with their immune status?
Conclusion
Immunocompetent young adults present with localized and less severe features of HZO compared to those who are HIV-positive.
Supporting Evidence
- 44.4% of subjects were found to be HIV-positive.
- 90% of immunocompetent subjects had a final visual acuity of 20/40 or better.
- 100% of HIV-positive subjects had a final visual acuity of 20/200 or worse.
- Postherpetic neuralgia was noted in 75% of HIV-positive subjects.
Takeaway
This study looked at young adults with a virus that causes painful rashes around the eyes. It found that those without HIV had milder symptoms and better recovery than those with HIV.
Methodology
A retrospective chart review of patients younger than 40 years who presented with HZO was performed, collecting data on demographics, medical history, clinical presentation, serological investigations, and visual outcomes.
Limitations
The study is limited by its retrospective design and small sample size.
Participant Demographics
The cohort comprised 18 subjects with a mean age of 29.7 years, predominantly male (72%), and included both HIV-positive and HIV-negative individuals.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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