Atypical multidermatomal herpes zoster in young immunocompetent adults.

This case series describes an unusual presentation of multidermatomal herpes zoster (HZ) in two immunocompetent young adult males, aged 35 and 20 years. Both patients presented with lesions involving multiple dermatomes, differing from the classic unilateral dermatomal pattern typically seen in HZ. Psychological stress was identified as a possible contributing factor in both cases. Dermoscopy is still infrequently utilized as a diagnostic tool in HZ. In these cases, it provided additional visual details that supported early recognition. Timely antiviral therapy and supportive measures, including stress reduction strategies, were followed by clinical resolution. This case series highlights the potential link between psychological stress and viral reactivation while also underscoring the clinical value of dermoscopy as a rapid adjunctive diagnostic tool.