Abstract
Background: The very unusual association between herpes zoster and Ogilvie syndrome
has received scant attention in the published literature. Objectives: This review
discusses the published experience since 1950 and attempts to increase clinical awareness
about the co-existence of both conditions. Case Report: An 84-year-old male patient
affected by herpes zoster presented with advanced acute colonic pseudo-obstruction
and was successfully treated with colonic diversion. Discussion: Twenty published
studies (1950–2008) of 28 patients in whom the two conditions co-existed are reviewed.
The review included 22 male and 7 female patients (24%) aged 32–87 years (mean, 61
years). Significant co-morbidities were present in 45% of the patients. The majority
of patients were observed and treated conservatively (83%). Two patients died (7%),
both suffering from respiratory complications and malignancy. Conclusion: Recognition
of the combined syndrome may help to avoid unnecessary surgery. Laparotomy should
be reserved as a last resort for when the obstruction cannot be successfully managed
by endoscopy. A diverting colostomy can be used to monitor the blood supply and thus
provide early warning for an impending abdominal catastrophe.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: March 31, 2009
Accepted:
February 6,
2009
Received in revised form:
January 28,
2009
Received:
October 20,
2008
Identification
Copyright
Published by Elsevier Inc.
