Clinical features of human immunodeficiency virus-associated disseminated herpes zoster virus infection--a review of the literature.

Some similarities and several differences in the epidemiological, morphological, therapeutic, and prognostic features of HIV-associated disseminated HZV infection and disseminated HZV infection occurring in HIV-seronegative immunosuppressed patients exist. The severity of the cutaneous disseminated HZV infection, the potential for significant HZV-related morbidity, and the poor prognosis associated with this infection in HIV-seropositive patients, warrants prompt therapeutic intervention. The emergence of acyclovir-resistant HZV infection emphasizes the importance of continued investigation of alternative therapies for individuals with coincident HIV infection.