Elderly Woman in Taichung Develops Blisters Around Eye; Doctor Says Caused by Shingles Virus

(Central News Agency, reporter Hao Xueqing, Taichung, 8th) An 80-year-old woman in Taichung City recently developed itchy and painful blisters around her right eye. She visited an ophthalmologist, who suspected an abnormality and consulted a neurologist. The diagnosis was confirmed as herpetic keratitis caused by the varicella-zoster virus (commonly known as shingles).

Dr. Wu Yuxuan, a neurologist at Taichung Hospital, explained at a press conference that herpetic keratitis occurs when the varicella-zoster virus invades the first branch of the trigeminal nerve. The virus typically lies dormant in nerve ganglia but travels along nerve pathways to the skin surface when the body's immune system is compromised.

Dr. Wu warned that when the shingles virus invades the face, it can travel along nerves to the brain, causing encephalitis, or directly damage the cornea and retina, leading to vision impairment. In severe cases, it can cause permanent blindness. Therefore, any unexplained itchy or painful blisters around the corners of the eyes, forehead, or cheeks should be treated with caution.

Shingles is most common in people over 50, those under long-term stress, with irregular lifestyles, chronic diseases, or those using immunosuppressants. However, in recent years, it has also been seen in young people in their 20s and 30s who frequently stay up late.

Regarding treatment, Dr. Wu stated that antiviral injections or oral medications are used to inhibit the virus, along with pain relievers and topical ointments to alleviate symptoms. If the eye area is affected, ophthalmological treatment is necessary to prevent corneal ulcers.

If people experience unexplained stabbing or throbbing pain on one side of the head, face, or body, followed by clustered rashes or blisters, Dr. Wu advises seeking immediate professional medical diagnosis and treatment. Early treatment can significantly shorten the course of the disease and reduce the risk of vision damage or long-term postherpetic neuralgia. He cautioned against using folk remedies or over-the-counter medications, which could delay optimal treatment. (Editor: Li Hengshan) 1150608