Abstract
We present a rare case of false acute abdomen caused by herpes zoster. An 85-year-old female was admitted with signs and symptoms of bowel obstruction including diffuse abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating and not passing gas for 3 days. On examination the patient was afebrile, hemodynamically stable, physical examination revealed arrhythmia, profound abdominal distention. Abdomen was tense, painful, with tympanic percussion and sluggish bowel sounds. A preliminary diagnosis of an acute abdomen was made, the cause of which, due to atrial fibrillation in history, could be thrombosis of the mesenteric vessels and bowel obstruction. An abdominal computed tomography scan revealed only intestinal distention. Pneumoperitoneum, ascites or occlusion of mesenteric vessels were absented. Conservative treatment was started. On the third day a painful skin rash and bull appeared in the lumbar, inguinal and gluteal region. Was diagnosed the herpes zoster. The patient was treated successfully by conservative management and antiviral therapy. In conclusion, gastrointestinal complications from herpes zoster infection are very rare. However, recognition of this complication may help to avoid unnecessary conservative treatment and even surgery.
References
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