Eye Conditions

Shingles

Shingles is an infection by the herpes zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox.  Chickenpox lay dormant in the body in the nerve roots.  If the virus becomes active it causes shingles, not another case of chickenpox.  When shingles occur in the head and neck area, there is an increased chance that the virus may infect the cornea.

Signs and Symptoms

• Corneal inflammation
• Corneal scarring
• Possible permanent decreased corneal sensitivity in more severe cases

Treatments and Prevention

• Oral antiviral treatment
• Shingles usually occurs in the elderly or immunosupressed, there is no definite prevention

UIC Specialists
Joel Sugar, MD
Elmer Tu, MD

Treatment Clinic/Service
Cornea and Refractive Surgery Service

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor.