Neonatal Herpes Zoster Ophthalmicus: Two Rare Cases

Abstract

Two neonates one at age of 15 days and another at age of 20 days were presented with redness, watering, periocular and lid swelling, photophobia and vesicular lesions over forehead on right side of face. Ocular examination revealed ciliary and conjunctival congestion, chemosis, and hazy cornea due to stromal edema. Though herpes zoster is very rare in neonates, the diagnosis of herpes zoster ophthalmicus was made on basis of clinical examination and treated with systemic and topical anti-viral, topical antibiotic and corticosteroid. Both neonates showed dramatic response in seven days treatment and completely cured within four weeks. High clinical suspicion in vesiculo-papular lesion of child of any age can help in early diagnose and early treatment can prevent sequelae of HZO.