Varicella Zoster Aseptic Meningitis Presenting as an Atypical Mucocutaneous Eruption Involving All Three Divisions of the Trigeminal Nerve

Abstract

Herpes zoster involving all three divisions of the trigeminal nerve is extremely rare and may pose a diagnostic challenge, especially in young and immunocompetent patients. We present a unique case of herpes zoster involving all three divisions of the trigeminal nerve and illustrate that this uncommon eruption can be a presenting sign of varicella zoster aseptic meningitis. This case emphasizes the importance of fundamental morphology recognition, particularly its ability to aid in clinical diagnosis and its potential to decrease patient morbidity and mortality by expediting the initiation of appropriate treatment.

Keywords: aseptic meningitis; herpes zoster; multi-dermatomal; trigeminal nerve; varicella zoster.