74-Year-Old Woman Overcomes Rare Bilateral Herpes Zoster at Manipal Hospital

Kolkata: Manipal Hospitals, Broadway successfully treated a rare case of bilateral Herpes Zoster in a 74-year-old woman, Nanda Ghosh. This is only the fourth documented case of its kind in India involving a non-immunocompromised patient.

Nanda Devi was admitted with symptoms of fever, severe headache, nasal discharge, congestion, and persistent coughing. Upon examination, vesiculopapular rashes—fluid-filled blisters—were noted, leading to the diagnosis of a rare bilateral manifestation of the Herpes Zoster virus. Unlike typical cases, which occur on one side of the body, her condition affected both sides of the face, including the forehead, cheeks, and eyes.

Herpes Zoster, commonly known as shingles, generally forms along a single nerve root, causing painful rashes. However, bilateral presentations are extremely rare, particularly in individuals who are otherwise healthy.

A multidisciplinary team led by Dr. Partha Sarathi Bhattacharjee, Consultant - Internal Medicine at Manipal Hospitals, Broadway, confirmed the diagnosis.

The team implemented a treatment plan involving antiviral medication (Zovirax) to combat the virus and antibiotics (Meropenem) to manage secondary infections. Dermatologists and ophthalmologists were consulted to ensure comprehensive care.

Dr. Bhattacharjee explained, “This case was a medical rarity, especially in a healthy elderly individual without immunosuppression. Such cases challenge conventional medical understanding and require advanced diagnostic expertise. If left untreated, Herpes Zoster can lead to severe complications such as blindness, hearing loss, and nerve damage. Getting the shingles vaccine can prevent herpes outbreaks. The shingles vaccine is administered in a 2-dose series, with the second dose given 2 to 6 months after the first for optimal effectiveness. Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential in managing the condition and preventing complications. While this vaccine is recommended for all ages, this is particularly beneficial for the elderly or those at higher risk.”

Nanda Devi’s son shared his experience, stating, “Watching my mother suffer without knowing what was wrong was heart-wrenching. This is the fourth time we have relied on Manipal Hospitals, Broadway, and every time, they have exceeded our expectations. My mother's condition was critical and very unusual, but the doctors here handled it with extraordinary care and expertise. Thanks to their efforts, my mother is now back home with her family. We are deeply thankful.”

Within a week, Nanda Devi showed significant improvement. Her fever subsided, and the rashes resolved without secondary infections. She was discharged in ten days in good health, reflecting the dedication and expertise of the team at Manipal Hospitals, Broadway.