Cutaneous herpes zoster and implantable pulse generator.

INTRODUCTION

Subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation has become a useful tool in effectively treating severe Parkinson's disease.

METHOD: While most reports in literature describe the immediate and short-term post-operative brain lead implant-related adverse events, we present the case of a 65-year-old man who developed herpes zoster (HZ) upon the subcutaneous placement of the pulse generator two years after the procedure.

CONCLUSION

He had excellent recovery of HZ lesions and related pain after specific antiviral therapy. The importance of a correct diagnosis of this unusual complication is outlined in order to minimize the risk of debilitating chronic HZ-associated pain.