Herper Zoster Myelitis Confirmed by Detection of Varicell-zoster Virus DNA Using the Polymerase Chain Reaction.
- Author:
Moon Ku HAN
1
;
Sang Soo LEE
;
Seol Heul HAN
Author Information
1. Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University.
- Publication Type:Brief Communication
- MeSH:
Acyclovir;
Adult;
Diagnosis;
DNA*;
Exanthema;
Herpes Zoster*;
Herpesvirus 3, Human;
Humans;
Myelitis*;
Polymerase Chain Reaction*;
Secondary Prevention;
Sensation;
Skin;
Spinal Cord Diseases
- From:Journal of the Korean Neurological Association
1996;14(4):1067-1071
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
We report a case of progressive myelopathy following herpes zoster skin eruption In adult. Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) myelopathy was diagnosed based on the close temporal relationship between rash and onset of myelopathy, and confirmed by demonstrating the presence of varicella-zoster virus DNA in the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) by amplification using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The patient was treated with intravenous acyclovir, and strength, sensation, sphincter function improved within 2 weeks. Detection of VZV DNA in CSF was useful for diagnosis and a role of virus In the pathogenesis of myelopathy. The clinical Improvement suggests that early therapy with an effective antiviral drug was beneficial.
