Systematic review of incidence and complications of herpes zoster: towards a global perspective

摘要: Objective The objective of this study was to characterise the incidence rates herpes zoster (HZ), also known as shingles, and risk complications across world. Design We systematically reviewed studies examining HZ, temporal trends including postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) HZ-associated hospitalisation mortality in general population. literature search conducted using PubMed, EMBASE WHO library up December 2013. Results included 130 26 countries. rate HZ ranged between 3 5/1000 person-years North America, Europe Asia-Pacific, based on prospective surveillance, electronic medical record data or administrative with review. A increase reported past several decades seven countries, often occurring before introduction varicella vaccination programmes. developing PHN varied from 5% more than 30%, depending type design, age distribution populations definition. More 30% patients experienced persistent pain for 1 year. recurrence 1% 6%, long-term follow-up showing higher (5–6%). Hospitalisation 2 25/100 000 person-years, among elderly populations. Conclusions is a significant global health burden that expected population ages. Future research rigorous methods important.