Pearls for Managing Zoster Ophthalmicus

In this interview from AAO 2019, Dr. Bennie Jeng explains why ophthalmologists should be concerned about zoster ophthalmicus. Although only 10% to 20% of zoster cases develop ophthalmicus, he explains that these patients are at high risk for complications such as anterior segment uveitis and vision loss. Since research is limited, the Zoster Eye Disease study aims to assess whether valacyclovir can prevent recurrence of herpes zoster keratitis or iritis. He notes that the new shingles vaccine may be effective for some patients, but those who have had shingles should already be self-immunized for a period of time.

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