Post-Herpetic Neuralgia (PHN)

A painful nervous system disorder caused by reaction to a dormant herpes zoster infection such as chicken pox which caused shingles.  After the shingles rash clears, there is still a persistent, painful vesicular (fluid filled) rash in the affected nerve root which causes a burning or tingling sensation.  Treatment includes drugs such as anti-convulsants, antidepressants, analgesics, corticosteroids, or antiviral drugs.  In sever cases, surgery may be necessary.