Herpes Zoster Outbreak in a 20-year-old, Collegiate Volleyball Player: A Case Study
Faculty Mentor(s)
Dr. Kirk Brumels, Hope College
Document Type
Poster
Event Date
4-13-2012
Abstract
Herpes Zoster, more commonly known as Shingles, is caused by the Chicken Pox (varicella zoster) virus. After an outbreak of the Chicken Pox, the virus remains in the body, lying dormant in the spinal cord. For reasons that are somewhat unknown, the virus can reactivate and travel along nerves, presenting as a red, blistering rash, often accompanied by pain and feelings of malaise. While Herpes Zoster typically presents on the torso, in the case studied it spreads along the upper extremity. In addition, it is most common in adults over age 60, however as evidenced by the present case, can affect all ages. This study looks at a unique case of shingles in a collegiate volleyball player and addresses the treatment which allowed the athlete to remain physically active through the duration of the virus. While the case has no definitive conclusions, it does offer insight into an uncommon condition among collegiate athletes and emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to healthcare.
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