herpes zoster /zos′tər/ [Gk, herpein + zoster, girdle] , an acute infection caused by reactivation of the latent varicella zoster virus, which mainly affects adults. The cause of reactivation is unknown, but it is linked to stress, aging, and immune impairment. It is characterized by the development of painful vesicular skin eruptions that follow the underlying route of cranial or spinal nerves inflamed by the virus. Prompt treatment with antivirals can speed healing and reduce the risk of postherpetic neuralgia. Also called shingles. See also herpes simplex, varicella zoster virus.
