Published online Dec 21, 2014. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v20.i47.18053
Revised: July 2, 2014
Accepted: July 29, 2014
Published online: December 21, 2014
Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) is a type of herpes virus known to cause varicella, mainly in young children, and herpes zoster in adults. Although generally non-lethal, VZV infection can be associated with serious complications, particularly in adults. Acute pancreatitis caused by VZV infection is a rare event, with reports primarily concerning immunocompromised individuals. Here we report a 44-year-old immunocompetent female who developed acute pancreatitis associated with VZV infection. The patient presented with vomiting and persistent pain in the upper quadrant less than one week after diagnosis and treatment for a herpes zoster-related rash with stabbing pain on the abdomen and dorsal right trunk side. A diagnosis of acute pancreatitis was confirmed based on abdominal pain, elevated levels of urine and serum amylase, and findings of peri-pancreatic exudation and effusions by computed tomography and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography. This case highlights that, though rare, acute pancreatitis should be considered in VZV patients who complain of abdominal pain, especially in the epigastric area. Early detection and proper treatment are needed to prevent the condition from deteriorating further and to minimize mortality.
Core tip: Acute pancreatitis associated with varicella-zoster viral infection is extremely rare. This report presents the case of a 44-year-old woman who developed acute pancreatitis after the onset of herpes zoster. This is the first case report of acute pancreatitis associated with herpes zoster in an immunocompetent adult.