title: A case of post-herpetic itch resolved with gabapentin.
abstract: Herpes zoster is a skin disease encountered commonly in dermatologic practice. While post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a familiar side effect of this condition, it is not the only neuropathic symptom that can result. Post-herpetic itch (PHI) is less well known, but should be considered when evaluating a patient after an occurrence of zoster. Gabapentin has been successfully used to treat cutaneous pain and pruritus in a variety of conditions. The authors describe a case of PHI successfully treated with a course of gabapentin and propose that this agent be considered for use in patients who present with PHI.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA.
authors.forename: Jared
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Jagdeo
authors.forename: Daniela
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Kroshinsky
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000588:Amines / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003509:Cyclohexanecarboxylic Acids / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D000077206:Gabapentin; D006562:Herpes Zoster / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D011537:Pruritus / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D005680:gamma-Aminobutyric Acid / Q000627:therapeutic use*
chemical_list: D000588:Amines; D003509:Cyclohexanecarboxylic Acids; D005680:gamma-Aminobutyric Acid; D000077206:Gabapentin