Recurrence of Herpes Zoster in the Same Dermatome

Abstract

A case of herpes zoster recurring in the same dermatome 10 years after the original attack is reported. The pathogenesis of herpes zoster is discussed. Recurrent herpes simplex zosteriformis is ruled out by animal inoculation. No precipitating factor could be detected other than exposure to a case of chickenpox. The present case strengthens the postulate that herpes zoster is produced by the reactivation of a latent virus present in the sensory ganglia and nerve sheath and that this reactivation can occur on more than one occasion.