Abstract
Aim: Relief of acute herpetic pain and prevention of postherpetic neuralgia are important in the treatment of herpes zoster. Guidelines on the treatment of herpes zoster are published in France and England. However, sympathetic nerve blocks that can relieve even severe acute herpetic pain are adopted in neither country. Guidelines on the treatment of herpes zoster are needed in the country where sympathetic nerve blocks are performed to relieve severe acute herpetic pain. Methods: We reviewed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antiviral drugs, sympathetic nerve blocks, adrenocorticosteroid hormones, and adjuvant analgesics for the treatment of acute herpetic pain. Guidelines for each patient were sought. Results and Conclusions: Oral antiviral and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should be taken by patients whose onset of herpes zoster is less than 72 hours and who are older than 50 years old. Sympathetic nerve blocks are recommended for patients with severe acute herpetic pain. Guidelines on the treatment of herpes zoster for other patients are also presented.
