Which condition is shingles?

Which condition is shingles?

• A. Herpes zoster
• B. Plantar warts
• C. Herpes simplex 1
• D. Tinea Pedis

Answer: (A)

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (the same virus that causes chickenpox). It presents as a painful, burning sensation followed by a localized vesicular rash that forms a band or stripe along a single dermatomal area, usually on the trunk or face. This distinctive dermatomal distribution and neuropathic pain are the giveaway features of herpes zoster. Plantar warts come from human papillomavirus and appear as rough, keratotic lesions on the sole. Herpes simplex type 1 typically causes cold sores around the mouth and presents with grouped vesicles in a non-dermatomal pattern. Tinea pedis is a fungal infection of the feet with itching and scaling between the toes. Therefore, the condition described as shingles is herpes zoster.

Shingles is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus (the same virus that causes chickenpox). It presents as a painful, burning sensation followed by a localized vesicular rash that forms a band or stripe along a single dermatomal area, usually on the trunk or face. This distinctive dermatomal distribution and neuropathic pain are the giveaway features of herpes zoster. Plantar warts come from human papillomavirus and appear as rough, keratotic lesions on the sole. Herpes simplex type 1 typically causes cold sores around the mouth and presents with grouped vesicles in a non-dermatomal pattern. Tinea pedis is a fungal infection of the feet with itching and scaling between the toes. Therefore, the condition described as shingles is herpes zoster.