文摘
In Germany a general varicella vaccination has been recommended by the German standing committee on vaccination (STIKO) for all children and teenagers for 10 years (from 2004). Since 29.03.2013 cases of varicella (e.g. suspected, disease and death) must be reported by name to the public health authorities according to the Infection Protection Act (IfSG). Due to reactivation following previous infection with varicella zoster virus (VZV), herpes zoster still has an important impact in clinical practice. Generally, every dermatome and cranial nerve can be involved. Following the thoracic and lumbal dermatomes, those supplied by the trigeminal nerve are the second most commonly affected regions and are, therefore, relevant for several disciplines which must take the special characteristics into consideration. Recent aspects of herpes zoster infection of the cranial nerves are presented with special reference to prevention, diagnosis, therapy and complication management.