Article: Shingles Information Page

What is Shingles?

Shingles (herpes zoster) are an outbreak of rash or blisters on the skin that is caused by the same virus that causes chicken pox - the varicella-zoster virus. Early signs of shingles include burning or shooting pain and tingling or itching located on one side of the body or face. After several days a rash of small blisters appears on reddened skin. The piercing and unrelenting pain associated with shingles can be set off by a gentle touch or a soft breeze on the skin. Anyone who has had chicken pox in the past is at risk for developing shingles later because the virus remains inactive, or dormant, in certain nerve cells of the body. Scientists are not certain why the virus reactivates, or why it only reactivates in about 20 percent of the people who have had chicken pox. There is evidence to suggest that a weakened immune system may cause the virus to break out of its dormant state, multiply, and move along nerve fibers to the skin. People with a weakened immune system, such as those with cancer or HIV, people over the age of 50, or who are ill, experiencing trauma, or under stress, are at risk for shingles.

Is there any treatment?

What is the prognosis?

What research is being done?

Select this link to view a list of studies currently seeking patients.