Name of the Condition

• Zoster Scleritis
• Herpes Zoster Scleritis

Summary

Zoster Scleritis is an inflammatory condition affecting the sclera—the white outer coating of the eyeball—resulting from the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox and shingles.

Causes

Zoster Scleritis is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, typically years after initial chickenpox infection. The virus can become dormant in nerve tissues and reactivate as shingles, potentially spreading to the eye.

Risk Factors

• Age: More common in older adults, particularly those over 50.
• Weakened immune system: Conditions such as HIV/AIDS or cancer.
• A history of chickenpox or shingles.

Symptoms

• Eye redness and pain.
• Blurred vision.
• Sensitivity to light.
• Swelling of the eye tissues.

Diagnosis

• Clinical examination by an ophthalmologist.
• Slit-lamp examination to check the eye under magnification.
• Blood tests to detect the presence of the varicella-zoster virus.

Treatment Options

• Antiviral medications like acyclovir to target the underlying virus.
• Steroidal eye drops to reduce inflammation.
• Analgesics for pain management.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prompt treatment generally improves outcomes and may prevent vision loss.
• Regular eye exams and follow-up visits are crucial to monitor the condition and adjust treatments.

Complications

• Potential loss of vision if untreated.
• Secondary eye infections.
• Persistent inflammation leading to chronic eye conditions.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Boosting the immune system through a healthy diet and regular exercise.
• Vaccination against shingles in older adults.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Sudden onset of eye pain, redness, or vision changes.
• These symptoms may indicate an urgent need for medical assessment to prevent complications.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Ophthalmology (aao.org)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov).

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure that the diagnosis is specifically referenced to Zoster Scleritis as B02.34, differentiating it from other forms of scleritis.
• Verify accuracy by cross-referencing patient history for preceding varicella-zoster virus conditions.