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Can Shingles Be Mistaken for Herpes?

Shingles (herpes zoster) may in some cases be mistaken for other herpetic conditions. However, a doctor can evaluate an individual's symptoms and reach an appropriate diagnosis based on characteristics that distinguish the conditions.

  1. Identification

    • Both shingles and genital herpes are caused by human herpes viruses, and they are part of the same subfamily of viruses, alphaherpesvirinae, according to Microbiology and Immunology Online.

    Symptoms

    • Shingles and genital herpes cause similar symptoms, including a blistering rash that is preceded by prodromal symptoms, including pain or discomfort in the area.

    Features

    • Genital herpes sores can appear on the genitals and the nearby areas of the thighs, buttocks and anus, while shingles sores occur on only one side of the body, mostly on the midsection and sometimes on the head and face, according to the Mayo Clinic.

    Considerations

    • Only a doctor can use the distinguishing features of these two conditions as well as testing practices to determine if an individual has shingles or genital herpes.

    Effects

    • A proper diagnosis can lead to treatment, including antiviral medications. The same group of antiviral drugs, including acyclovir, valacyclovir and famciclovir, are used in the treatment of both conditions.

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