International journal of dermatology
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This is a retrospective study of the epidemiology and morbidity of herpes zoster and the risk factors for herpes zoster morbidity in Singapore. ⋯ Our study indicated that older patients (aged more than 50 years) were at a higher risk of developing post-herpetic neuralgia. They were also more likely to suffer morbidity, e.g. insomnia. There is a need to educate patients at risk to identify the prodrome and skin eruptions of herpes zoster so that early antiviral therapy can be considered.
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The incidence of genital herpes is increasing worldwide. Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is the most common cause of genital ulcerations among the sexually transmitted diseases (STDS). In order to investigate the sexual transmission of genital herpes infection in Brazil, the prevalence of specific antibodies to HSV-2, in populations of high and low risk for STDS was evaluated. ⋯ The current strategy for diagnosing genital HSV-2 infection misses many cases. Newly developed type-specific serologic methods can identify cases of unrecognized or subclinical infection. With the high seroprevalence rates detected, routine screening for HSV-2-specific antibodies should be considered in populations at high risk for STDS.