Hyperkeratosis of the left cheek

Abstract

A 66-year-old man with a recent history of herpes zoster in the second division of the trigeminal nerve presented with hyperkeratotic plaques along his left cheek and temple. A shave biopsy was found to be consistent with postherpetic hyperkeratosis. This case represents a unique presentation of Wolf’s postherpetic isotopic response: a new skin disorder emerging at the site of a previously healed herpetic, predominantly zoster, infection. We aim to increase awareness of an unusual complication of herpes zoster and the importance of appropriate vaccination to help protect patients from these potential postinfection effects.

Keywords:

• Dermatology
• infectious disease
• virus