Claw Hand Deformity: A Rare Complication of Herpes Zoster

Distal upper extremity weakness is a rare complication after herpes zoster, which can be easily misdiagnosed by other nerve entrapment syndromes. We present a 31-year-old immunocompromised woman who developed a claw-like deformity of her right hand after full medical treatment and resolution of herp...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Orthopedic research and reviews 2021-11, Vol.13, p.209-214, Article 209
Main Authors: Jiravichitchai, Tachit, Chira-adisai, Waree, Panuwannakorn, Monratta, Kiertiburanakul, Sasisopin
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Case Report
claw hand deformity
electrodiagnosis
hand splint
herpes zoster
Infections
Laboratories
Occupational therapy
Pain
rehabilitation
Shingles (Disease)
Vincristine
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Summary:Distal upper extremity weakness is a rare complication after herpes zoster, which can be easily misdiagnosed by other nerve entrapment syndromes. We present a 31-year-old immunocompromised woman who developed a claw-like deformity of her right hand after full medical treatment and resolution of herpes zoster. The electrodiagnostic finding was compatible with right multiple mononeuropathies of the median and ulnar nerves, ongoing axonal loss, unlike the nerve entrapment patterns. The early recognition and early electrodiagnosis of herpes zoster-induced distal motor weakness, especially in the upper extremity, is necessary to exclude the nerve entrapment syndrome and to be the baseline for functional motor recovery prediction. The prognosis of functional motor recovery is considered good but may take months to years to accomplish. Rehabilitation management plays an important role after full medical treatment. Keywords: herpes zoster, claw hand deformity, electrodiagnosis, rehabilitation, hand splint
ISSN:1179-1462
1179-1462
DOI:10.2147/orr.s339064