Which finding is characteristic of herpes zoster (shingles)?

Which finding is characteristic of herpes zoster (shingles)?

• A. Unilateral linear pattern of fluid-filled blisters
• B. Bilateral symmetric vesicles on trunk
• C. Generalized pustular rash
• D. Vesicular lesions only on face

Answer: (A)

Herpes zoster manifests as a painful, vesicular eruption that follows a specific nerve distribution. The hallmark is unilateral involvement in a dermatomal pattern, often appearing as a belt-like band of grouped vesicles on one side of the body (or face if a cranial nerve is involved). The vesicles are fluid-filled and tend to crust as they heal, and they typically do not cross the midline. This explains why the unilateral linear pattern of fluid-filled blisters is the characteristic finding. Bilateral trunk involvement, generalized pustular spread, or lesions confined only to the face are not typical patterns for shingles.

Herpes zoster manifests as a painful, vesicular eruption that follows a specific nerve distribution. The hallmark is unilateral involvement in a dermatomal pattern, often appearing as a belt-like band of grouped vesicles on one side of the body (or face if a cranial nerve is involved). The vesicles are fluid-filled and tend to crust as they heal, and they typically do not cross the midline. This explains why the unilateral linear pattern of fluid-filled blisters is the characteristic finding. Bilateral trunk involvement, generalized pustular spread, or lesions confined only to the face are not typical patterns for shingles.