title: [Zoster and postherpetic neuralgia: vaccine prevention is available].
abstract: Herpes zoster (HZ) infection is a common condition in the elderly. Immunosuppression involving cellular immunity favors its occurrence. The pain is the most frequent complications of HZ. It occurs in about 30% of people aged over 70 years. The virological diagnosis of typical HZ is not useful, and the diagnosis is mainly based on clinical data. Skin care is essential to limit cutaneous damage. Antiviral drugs will reduce the risk of post-herpetic neuralgia, if they are early prescribed within 72 hours after the rash onset. Analgesia is essential and should be conducted in relation evolution. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the occurrence of HZ complications in the elderly, in particular post-herpetic neuralgia.
authors.affiliation: Service de gériatrie, Hôpital universitaire Charles Foix et Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Ivry-sur-Seine, France.
authors.forename: Joël
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Belmin
authors.affiliation: Service de gériatrie, Hôpital universitaire Charles Foix et Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Ivry-sur-Seine, France.
authors.forename: Witold
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Jarzebowski
authors.affiliation: Service de gériatrie, Hôpital universitaire Charles Foix et Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Ivry-sur-Seine, France.
authors.forename: Carmelo
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Lafuente-Lafuente
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006562:Herpes Zoster / Q000150:complications / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000523:psychology*; D053061:Herpes Zoster Vaccine; D006801:Humans; D007114:Immunization; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D051474:Neuralgia, Postherpetic / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000276:immunology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology
chemical_list: D053061:Herpes Zoster Vaccine
keywords: elderly; immunization; pain; shingles