Disseminated herpes zoster in the course of chronic myeloid leukemia

Introduction
Disseminated herpes zoster often occurs in patients with a history of primary varicella zoster virus infection and impaired immune response. The disease may lead to development of severe complications.

Case report
A 73-year-old man was admitted to the Department of Dermatology due to numerous vesicles on an erythematous background, demonstrating a linear pattern, accompanied by neuralgia, which initially appeared on the left arm and forearm. He had been previously diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia. After a few days, changes became generalized. Laboratory tests shown elevated levels of inflammatory markers and thrombocytopenia. Disseminated herpes zoster was diagnosed. The applied therapy resulted in gradual clinical improvement. The patient was referred for further diagnostics and hematological treatment.

Conclusions
Zoster is usually mild. However, it may be the first symptom of chronic disease or malignancy, and especially of lymphoproliferative diseases. Detailed diagnostics is therefore crucial, as the latent form may lead to various complications, not only dermatological, but also of systemic nature.