Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) presenting as a radicular pain in the thoracic region
is not uncommon, but the presentation in the lumbar and thigh region is not frequently
seen. Characteristic segmental vesicular–bullous rash in a dermatomal distribution
associated with pain and allodynia is a prominent feature. The pain appears before
rash. It is not uncommon for clinicians to misdiagnose radicular pain caused by VZV
due to prolapsed disc. We report two patients who presented to us with complaints
of back pain with leg radiculopathy that were initially treated for discogenic radiculopathy
and rash was wrongly attributed to hot fomentation. This case report emphasizes the
importance of including varicella-zoster radiculitis in the differential diagnosis
of radicular pain and clinical examination of every rash. Physical examination is
must if the patient complains of rash. Appropriate and timely diagnosis can prevent
unnecessary investigations.
Key-words:
Radiculitis - rash - varicella zoster
