Chicken pox, also known as varicella, is a common viral childhood disease typically identified by its characteristic rash. Herpes zoster (shingles) results from a reactivation of the varicellazoster virus already lying dormant in the body. Chicken pox, also known as varicella, is a common viral childhood disease typically identified by its characteristic rash. Herpes zoster (shingles) results from a reactivation of the varicellazoster virus already lying dormant in the body. It also has a characteristic rash that overlies the distribution of an affected nerve. Typically, herpes zoster is an exceptionally painful condition. Pain is often severe enough for opiates to be used for control. Antiviral drugs such as famciclovir are used with mixed results.

Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons Volume 10 Number 4 Winter 2005