Zoster
Zoster, or shingles, is reactivation of the chickenpox virus and can cause a painful rash and nerve symptoms.
When to get help quickly: Prompt review is important if the rash affects the face or eye, if pain is severe, or if there is confusion, weakness, or widespread rash in a person who is very unwell or immunocompromised.
Common symptoms
Symptoms often begin with burning, tingling, or pain on one side of the body, followed by a blistering rash in the same area. Some people also feel feverish or tired.
When imaging helps
Imaging is not usually needed for ordinary shingles, but it helps if doctors are worried about complications affecting the brain, spine, or eyes.
What radiology does
Imaging is not routinely needed, but MRI or CT may be used when there are complications involving the brain, spine, or eyes.
What usually happens next
Treatment may include antiviral medicines, pain control, and urgent specialist review if vision or neurological symptoms are involved.
Seen this on your report?
Your doctor or the radiologist who wrote it can tell you what it means for you.